Życie codzienne młodzieży brygad Powszechnej Organizacji "Służba Polsce" pracujących przy budowie Zagłębia Miedziowego w latach 1949-1953

In the area commonly known as the Lubin Copper Basin in the period 1949-1953 have functioned three brigades of the Public Organisation Służba Polsce. In that time 12 labour camps were arranged, employing around 5,500 people. The young members of the SP performed spadework and clean-up tasks, often in difficult conditions. They were involved in “filling holes on particular fronts“ of this construction as well as employed for tasks that full-time workers refused to perform. They received minimal pay, that was lowered further by detracting food cost and similar expenses. Their accommodations left much to be desired. The camps of the SP were filthy, they lacked utility rooms, electricity, heating, drinkable water. They were frequently plagued by lack of uniforms, food rations, hygiene and medical care. The participants of the camps had a detailed schedule for every hour of the week. Aside from work they were required to participate in military and physical exercises. They were also politically indoctrinated. During work-free days trips to cinemas, theatres and sport competitions were organised. The youths most often complained about accommodations, food, work organisation and payment. Till 1950 maintaining discipline was possible due to many employees being military personnel. Afterwards they were replaced by civilians, resulting in discipline becoming somewhat lax.