The spring of 1919 witnessed a war-weary country trying to return to normal. But as they say, war changes everything, and Ocean County was no exception. Over 1,000 men and women served during the conflict, with a large number in the 78th Division. On May 30 at Camp Dix, where they had trained less than two years before, their commander, Brig. Gen. J.H. McRae, said goodbye.

“In addressing you at this time of parting, I recall to mind the incidents of the past eighteen months during which it has…