Celebrating 75 Years of the CCC

Former Supt. Gary Everhardt and David Barlow

Former BRP Superintendent Dan Brown

Gary Everhardt
Dr. Harley Jolley
Linda Brown

Representative Ray Rapp presents
The Order of The Long Leaf Pine

President FDR introduces the four CCC members

On Thursday, June 19th, I attended a wonderful event at the Claxton Farm in Weaverville, NC to recognize 4 Civilian Conservation Corps members for their contributions with the building of the Blue Ridge Parkay and to celebrate the release of Harley Jolley's new book "The Magnificant Army of Youth and Peace" In addition, Dr. Jolley and all persons present were treated to a visit by President FDR. Conversations were had relative to the work done by the CCC members as well as the book.
Shortly after discussing the book and the contributions of the CCC, Representative Ray Rapp presented Dr. Harley Jolley with the "Order of the Long Leaf Pine" The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, created in 1965, is the highest civilian honor that can be granted in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is among the most prestigious awards presented by the Governor of North Carolina. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is presented to individuals who have a proven record of extraordinary service to the state.
In addition to the presentation of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, Dan Lundsford the President of Mars Hill College spoke about Dr. Jolley and time spent in his class. Also, a lovely artwork was presented to Dr. Jolley which was a view from Waterrock Knob. Finally, Patrick Flaherty of the Blue Ridge Parkway shared a song titled "Cutting Rock and Building Trail (The CCC Boys)" with all present.
Many supporters of the Parkway were present. The event was organized by the BRP Foundation and its Executive Director Houck M. Medford. Many members of the Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway were present, as well as a good number of the Blue Ridge Parkway Employees and Alumni Association. Also present were Gary Everhardt and Dan Brown - former Superintendents of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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