Thomas R. Todd (Ray)
Letcher, SD
1933, 1790, Rochford, F-5,
1934, 2758, Ft. Meade/Fechner, D-Army-1, Ass't Leader
1935, 789, Este, F-3, Junior Ass't Leader
Thomas R. (Ray) Todd was born in Letcher, SD on August 31, 1913. He graduated from Letcher High School in 1930 and Subsequently attended South Dakota State University. Due to the challenging economic times of that age, he left college after 1 1/2 years and eventually joined the Civilian Conversation Crops in 1933. He remained with the Corps until 1936 spending most of his time at Fort Meade.
Although it is unclear as to his exact duties while in the CCCs, he often commented that the experience was a significant factor in his life. He took family members to the area around Fort Meade where the camps were located and on one visit, searched for and rediscovered a footbridge that was built by his unit some 50 years prior.
One aspect of his time with the CCCs centered on athletics of which he participated regularly. The showcase reflects the numerous awards and medals he received and it is believed he and his team mates were quite successful in their athletic endeavors.
After leaving the CCCs, Ray continued to work on various public works projects including the Alaskan Highway. In 1944 he joined the US Navy and was Stationed at the advanced bomb disposal School in Washington, DC. Following his discharge in 1948, he worked for the Bureau of Public Roads in Washington, DC until 1965 when he moved to Columbia, SC and worked as a transportation consultant for the international firm of Wilbur Smith and Associates. He retired in 1986 and moved back to Letcher, SD in 1989. He passed away on January 12, 2003.
The photograph accompanying the showcase may be one of a kind. Although Ray passed away before the photo was discovered it is thought he is in the Standing row, third from the left.
This display is made possible through the efforts of Cindy Todd Roof, Mike Todd and Pat Todd, daughter and sons of Ray Todd. It is dedicated to the memory of our father and all men who worked for the South Dakota Civilian Conservation Corps.
Do you have additional information about Thomas Todd
We would like to included it. Please write or email us at History "at" SouthDakotaCCC "dot" org.
