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Famous USPS alumni showcased

Actor Sherman Hemsley of “The Jeffersons” was one of several former USPS employees. Image: Federal News Radio.
Actor Sherman Hemsley of “The Jeffersons” was one of several former USPS employees. Image: Federal News Radio.

What do actor Sherman Hemsley of “The Jeffersons” and Bill Nye the late-19th century humorist have in common?

They are among the famous political figures, entertainers, pioneers and more who have worked for the postal system since its inception.

Federal News Radio offers a snapshot of more than 20 well-known figures who served in various postal roles, including aviator Charles Lindbergh, who worked as an airmail pilot in 1926.

You probably already know that Ben Franklin was appointed as first Postmaster General in 1775. But did you know that Charles Drew, the surgeon who pioneered blood transfusions and storage techniques, worked as a part-time special delivery messenger?

Other influential postal workers include Conrad Hilton, who served as Postmaster in New Mexico before founding Hilton Hotels and Samuel L. Gravely, the first African-American Admiral, who served as a railway mail clerk in 1948.

Visit Postal People to learn more about the history of the USPS workforce.

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