S/Sgt. Schimenek completed a 25-mission tour as a tail gunner with the 546th Bomb Squadron. He was a member of the first crew to be assigned to the 546th Bomb Squadron, which was known as their "Model Crew," with 2nd Lt. Philip Algar (Pilot). 

For his service and actions in combat, Schimenek was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart, Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and Good Conduct Medal, among many others.

Schimenek also served as a Military Firearms Instructor, where he trained various personnel, including actor, Clark Gable.

Following his military service, Schimenek returned to civilian life and was employed as a clerk and pay master with the Burlington Northern Railroad until his retirement in 1975. He remained active in his community as a National Aquatic Instructor and he was a member of the Civil Air Patrol (Superior Chapter). 

He lived to the age of 90 and lies in rest in his hometown of Superior, Wisconsin. 

Information courtesy of 384thBombGroup.com⇗ and Find a Grave⇗