The Civilian Conservation Corps planted hundreds of millions of trees across the upper Midwest during The Great Depression. The 17-25 year old youth also fought forest fires, restored damaged riverbanks, cut truck trails, and built airports. The federal works program created under President Roosevelt not only restored damaged wilderness but help the men grow in discipline and self-confidence.
Bill wrote a dozen original songs that celebrate this life changing experience for many of our grandfathers and uncles.
Chowtime is a humorous look at the food in the mess hall, while It’s Tough to be Rookie describes the practical joking that went on in camp. Fire Fightin’, Tree Plantin’ Blues tells of the hardships of work and City Slicker looks at the many encounters the enrollees had with animals in the woods. He was only Sixteen describes how a young man’s life was changed by his experience in the corps while Saturday Night looks at the recruit’s favorite night when they went into town.
Bill's multi-media program includes stories from the many CCC reunions he has attended, descriptions of the places he has visited across the country, excerpts from his book and a short clip from his PBS video. Bill customizes his presentation to his audience and geographic region.
