I noted, after reading Philip Kennicott’s article, that he "frequently writes about architecture." Perhaps he should stick to that area and stay away from commenting about our war memorials ("Retire war memorials to enhance the Mall," Perspectives, April 18).

Why stop with just the removal of the World War II and Korean War memorials? He states that "As the last veterans of a particular war pass on, that war’s memorial should be retired." Why not remove the Washington Monument or the Lincoln Memorial? Last time I checked, Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln were no longer around either.

Their purpose isn’t just for healing. They become part of our history and a reminder to future generations about what their ancestors gave to allow this country to be what it is today — free.

Petty Officer 1st Class Andy Zachary (retired)Contingency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq