The Civilian Pilot Training Act of 1939 Signed into Law

The Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP) was established as a civilian program, but its potential for national defense was undisguised. The government would pay for a 72-hour ground school course followed by 35 to 50 hours of flight instruction at facilities located near eleven colleges and universities.

The CPTP proved successful, not only strengthening national defense but also opening up pilot training opportunities to individuals who might not have otherwise had access.  Starting with 13 colleges and 330 students, the program rapidly expanded. By 1944, it encompassed 1,132 institutions and trained 435,165 pilots.