Existing comment:
Thousands of men returned to Camp Kearny, each receiving detailed examinations before discharge. In February 1919, the Camp also served as a convalescent center. Men requiring more thorough attention were kept at this facility until their health was regained. With the end of World War I, the hospital complex was turned over to the United States Public Health Service.
In addition to providing healthcare, the convalescent center encouraged recuperation through vocational training. Included in these areas were automotive repair, stenotype and typewriting, construction, and machinery operation. Equally a wide range of practical skills were offered such as tailoring, hat restoration, shoe repair, and basket weaving. Light recreation was utilized for those too weak for regular duty. As a result, the activities utilized through the convalescent center were an important part of reintegration of service personnel returning to civilian society.
Camp Kearny was closed on 31 October 1920. In the years that followed most of the buildings were either salvaged or demolished. The hospital complex remained in use until 1930 when it was demolished as well. |