In the 1930s, the federal government was the answer to prayers for poor, unemployed young men.

Those between the ages of 17 and 28 could enlist in the Civilian Conservation Corps where they could work, learn new, marketable skills, and earn $30 per month, with most of that going to their families.

And they would travel and receive food, clothing, medical care and undergo physical conditioning.

They’d live outdoors in large work camps with people from different parts of the country.

It was a promise of adventure and new possibilities.

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