Once Upon a Town

During World War II, the small town of North Platte, Nebraska, transformed its railroad depot into the North Platte Canteen, a welcoming haven for soldiers on their way to battle, staffed entirely by local volunteers. Serving more than six million GIs over the course of the war, the Canteen provided comfort, friendship, and a taste of home during brief stopovers. Through interviews with residents and veterans, Bob Greene uncovers the inspiring story of this heartfelt community effort and the nation's gratitude toward its soldiers.