Returning Home
Even with the excitement of sightseeing and playing for the Grand Ducal Family of Luxembourg, Hendrickson was ready to go home a few months into 1919. “Over two years now since being with the loved onces at home - and after what I've seen over here - you can imagine how I wish to be back again.” (April 19, 1919) Hendrickson soon got his wish and the 129th Infantry returned to Brest in far western France in May, 1919 and prepared to leave.
The 129th Infantry took the USS Leviathan from Brest to Camp Merritt, New Jersey. Once back in America, Hendrickson had a few more days of sightseeing, going to New York City from Camp Merritt. Hendrickson's return brought out plenty of internal emotions. “America is a wonderful place, all foreigners think it so at least and I know it as a positive fact. Will close, with love to all. Some day we will talk instead of write. Can you imagine it?” (May 11, 1919). Hendrickson's excitement to return home and to his family is present throughout his service, but intensifies the closer he gets to coming home.
After two years and two months, and a lifetime of experiences, away, Hendrickson returned home and received an honorable discharge on June 6th, 1919. He concludes his war diary with his arrival back in Danville, Illinois and the phrase "Home & happy." (June 7th, 1919)