Frank Mussemann

Frank is a proud World War II veteran, a dedicated family man, and a cherished community member. Born near WaKeeney, Kansas, on December 7th, 1924, Frank has a deep connection to history; on his 17th birthday in 1941, the attack on Pearl Harbor marked the United States’ entry into World War II.

Moved by a sense of duty, Frank enlisted in the U.S. Navy after graduating from Trego Community High School in 1942. He completed boot camp in Iowa and then trained as a pilot, first in Texas and later in California, where he perfected the challenging skill of landing planes on aircraft carriers. Whenever he flew near his hometown in Kansas, Frank would circle his family’s farm, signaling to his mother that he was safe.

Although the war ended in 1945 before Frank was deployed overseas, his service to his country has left a lasting legacy. When he was discharged, Frank held the rank of Lieutenant JG. He has been a lifetime member of American Legion Post 197 in WaKeeney, Kansas, proudly serving his fellow veterans and community for an impressive 79 years.

After returning to Trego County, Frank joined his father on their family farm, cultivating crops and raising cattle. Frank married and raised four children. his legacy has grown to include five grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, all of whom take immense pride in his life and accomplishments.

Frank’s commitment to his church, family, and the farming community remains steadfast. His story exemplifies the values of hard work, resilience, and service that characterize the Greatest Generation.