Born in Zschochau (now part of Ostrau), Saxony during the middle of World War II, Schumann enlisted in the East German Bereitschaftspolizei (state police) following his 18th birthday.
Lahir di Zschochau, Saxony saat pertengahan Perang Dunia II, Schumann masuk Bereitschaftspolizei (kepolisian negara) Jerman Timur setelah berusia 18 tahun.