KYN: Richard Bong Museum Showcases Local Army Postmaster

SUPERIOR, Wis.– A story from World War 2 that’s been waiting to be told, is finally being shared.

“I was excited. Briana and I have been working on this for quite a long time, as I’ve been bringing things over to her. We’ve been working together to get this done. Both of us thought this was a story that really needed to be told.” explained Maggie Scheibe, Clarence’s daughter.

“I was introduced to Clarence Scheibe’s daughter several years ago. We’ve actually been talking about doing this exhibit for quite a while now. And I think he has the most fascinating story.” said Briana Fiandt, Curator of Collections at the Bong Museum.

During the time of tension, Clarence joined the Army a little later than most.

“During the war, he was 40 years old, a notice came across his desk that they needed postmasters to join up and go overseas to help set up postal courier systems.” said Fiandt.

Clarence spent his time in Munda, with quite a dangerous job. The mail case was handcuffed to his wrist, and he carried the key at all times. Because of this, he was a target for attacks.
He was tasked to deliver all types of different mail.

“The courier, postal courier service handled everything from secret dispatches from Eisenhower, McCarthy, from the big names.” said Scheibe.

Some of that mail, held a different type of importance.

“Down to the birthday card, to the solider. And those things are so very important to remember.” said Scheibe.

Towards the end of the war, Cpt. Clarence Scheibe had another concern and felt a new call to action.

“My dad was concerned about all the young men going home. And what jobs they would have, and where they would go, and what they would do. Because he was the old guy.” said Scheibe

Cpt. Scheibe teamed up with his comrades to start something new.

They decided they were going to do something to help these young men. They established a little school. And they taught courses. And they actually had a graduation. and they called it the ‘University of Munda.’ Mcarther heard about it, Eisenhower heard about it, and Eisenhower liked it so well that he started establishing the same thing all over.” explained Scheibe

Maggie’s father returned home a hero. She kept his letters and other keepsakes at home until she was finally able to tell his story.
Celebrating not just him, but all of the men and women involved in the postal service.

“And it’s the story not of just my dad, but of all the men and women in the courier service during the war. From its very earliest beginnings. And today I think it’s so easy to forget.” said Scheibe

Maggie is looking forward to the community learning more of her father’s story.

“It’s absolutely wonderful and exciting. And it’s a real privilege for me. And it’s an honor to have his story here.” said Scheibe with a smile.