- Timuel Black returned to Chicago and found that the city had changed drastically during his absence. He had difficulty finding a job and adjusting to civilian life.
- Joe Hanley returned to West Virginia and found that the economy had declined and there were few opportunities for work. He struggled to support his family and eventually had to move to California to find a job.
- Nurse Betty Basye returned to New York City and found that she was no longer able to work as a nurse due to her injuries. She struggled to find a new job and eventually had to rely on government assistance.
These anecdotes highlight the challenges that many returnees faced after the war, including unemployment, poverty, and discrimination. Despite these challenges, many returnees were able to rebuild their lives and make significant contributions to American society.