Michael Mosiman has been serving Uncle Sam for a very long time.
The Great Bend man, who turns 70 next June, is retiring the United States Postal Service as of Jan. 2. In all, he has spent 50 years in government service, including the USPS, the Navy and Army Reserves.
He was honored with a surprise party at the Great Bend Post Office Thursday morning. He was joined by his wife Crilla, his postal coworkers and postal service officials.
“Your unique service puts you in an elite group,” said Mike Monnington, senior manager of post office operations out of Omaha, Neb. It shows, he said, dedication to the profession and the community he serves.
“I love my job,” Mosiman said. “But, I know its time.”
The veteran mail carrier said his body just isn’t up to the task anymore. Besides, it is time to enjoy a life outside of work.
“I love you guys very much,” he said. The back room of the post office was filled with current and retired postal workers, all of whom had worked with Mosiman.
“That a boy, Mo,” shouted someone in the crowd.
Great Bend Post Master Guy Moeckel cited a USPS motto when referring to Mosiman. “Our people make the difference.”
After Monnington and Moeckel presented Mosiman with a pin and certificates, there was a reception in his honor.
Originally from Beatrice, Neb., Mosiman moved to Great Bend after he got out of the military to join his brother. He has spent his entire postal career here as a mail carrier.
He joined the Navy at age 18 and served four years during the Vietnam Conflict. After he left, he decided to join the Army Reserves and served another 22 years, a hitch that included Operation Desert Storm. So, he is also a retired military man.