MENSTER, William J.

MENSTER, William J. (Rev.). (Cascade, IA, Feb. 10, 1913-Apr. 14, 2007). Catholic priest who was the first clergyman to visit Antarctica. In 1946 Menster, a U.S. Navy chaplain, was assigned to the U.S.S. Mt. Olympus and "Operation Highjump" -the fourth expedition to Antarctica of Navy Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd. In his capacity, Menster blessed the last of the world's seven continents. The expedition of five Navy ships ferrying 2,000 men-Catholics, Protestants, and Jews made Menster a pioneer in administering ecumenical religious services.

In 1949 Menster told the adventure in his book Strong Men South. He traveled to Hollywood as technical consultant when parts of the book were featured in a 1955 ABC television documentary, The Secret Land. From that experience Menster became involved in veterans work and served several years as national chaplain of the Amvets.

Ordained on June 11, 1938, Menster joined the Navy during World War II. After twenty-five years as a Navy chaplain, he retired as a full commander and served parishes in Waterloo, Corwith, Monona, Waverly, Clarion, and St. Donatus. In Dubuque he served nine years as director of Catholic Charities. His work at St. Mary's Children's home often involved playing guitar for the children. After his retirement, Menster carried his musical entertainment to residents of Dubuque nursing homes. He also filled in for parish priests as needed and several times each year boarded a cruise ship where he served as chaplain to vacationers of all faiths.