WASHINGTON — Today, Congressman Tony Wied introduced legislation to rename a post office in Waupaca County after local World War II hero Master Sergeant Melvin O. Handrich.
“Master Sergeant Melvin O. Handrich went above and beyond the call of duty during World War II and he represents the best of Wisconsin,” said Congressman Wied. His bravery and heroism are an inspiration to us all and shows what true patriotism looks like. I am proud to introduce this legislation to rename a post office in his honor so that his story and legacy can continue to live on for generations to come.”
Biography: Manawa native, M/Sgt. Handrich, Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. His company was engaged in repulsing an estimated 150 enemies who were threatening to overrun its position. Near midnight on August 25th, 1950 a hostile group of over 100 strong attempted to infiltrate the company perimeter. M/Sgt. Handrich, despite the heavy enemy fire, voluntarily left the comparative safety of the defensive area and moved to a forward position where he could direct mortar and artillery fire upon the advancing enemy. He remained at this post for eight hours, directing fire against the enemy who often approached within 50 feet of his position. Again, on the morning of August 26th, another strong hostile force tried to overrun the company’s position. With complete disregard for his safety, M/Sgt. Handrich rose to his feet and from this exposed position fired his rifle and directed mortar and artillery fire on the attackers. At the peak of this action, he observed elements of his company preparing to withdraw. He perilously made his way across fire-swept terrain to the defense area where, by example and forceful leadership, he reorganized the men to continue the fight. During the action M/Sgt. Handrich was severely wounded. Refusing to take cover or be evacuated, he returned to his forward position and continued to direct the company’s fire. Later a determined enemy attack overran M/Sgt. Handrich’s position, and he was mortally wounded. When the position was retaken, over 70 enemy dead were counted in the area he had so intrepidly defended. M/Sgt. Handrich’s sustained personal bravery, consummate courage, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect untold glory upon himself and the heroic traditions of the military service. For his heroic acts, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. He is buried at Little Wolf Cemetery in Manawa, Waupaca County, Wisconsin.
The Post Office is located at 306 South Main Street in Waupaca, WI.
Representatives Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Bryan Steil (R-WI), Mark Pocan (D-WI), Scott Fitzgerald (R-WI), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), and Gwen Moore (D-WI) are original cosponsors of this legislation.
