By JOHANNA MILLER
OF THE REGISTER-PAJARONIAN
WATSONVILLE — A group of 12 young California Conservation Corps (CCC) members stood together in front of their future headquarters on Aviation Way in Watsonville on Wednesday, swearing an oath to do their jobs to the best of their ability.
Today, the group heads to San Jose International Airport to catch a flight to the island of Puerto Rico. They will be stationed in the unincorporated U.S. territory for one month to aid in hurricane relief efforts by preparing flooded homes for rebuilding with a process known as “mucking and gutting,” where damaged walls and flooring are taken down to the studs and subfloors.
Supervisor Cesar Ramirez, who will travel along with the young Corps members, said he was proud of the group and excited they could have this opportunity. He also stressed the importance of sending aid to Puerto Rico in particular.
“Providing these kinds of services is crucial for them,” he said. “If we can give these people any glimpse of hope, any reassurance that things will get better for them, we’ve done our job.”
After Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico on Sept. 20, things have been exceedingly unstable on the island. Many areas still do not have power — some just receiving it this week after about 100 days in the dark. While Puerto Rico is already bankrupt, the hurricane caused an additional $95 billion in damage, according to a recent Associated Press report.
In October, the CCC’s first response team was sent to Puerto Rico to help remove downed trees and debris that were barriers to emergency supplies. After receiving word from Americorps and the Federal Emergency Management Agency that more help was needed, a second group was organized.
Ian Capper, 22, has been with this branch of the CCC for seven months. He admits he will miss home and his family during the job, but is eager to help the people of Puerto Rico.
“It just feels good to go out there and make a real difference,” he said.
Capper has formed a tight bond with the other 11 men and women on his unit and says he is grateful to have them along with him for trip.
“I’m glad I’ll be experiencing this with these guys,” he said. “We work well together.”
Watsonville Mayor Lowell Hurst addressed the CCC group Wednesday afternoon in front of their future headquarters, which was once a National Guard armory. Hurst gave a brief speech to the young men and women before swearing them in. He applauded them for their dedication and wished them safe travels.
New CCC recruits were also on hand at the swearing in, eager to send their seniors off with warm wishes.
“It’s really a big adventure, what they’re doing,” said Forrest Rainer, who has been with the agency for a month. “But that’s what this job is all about. You have to be dedicated.”
