Michael Kohne - Class of 2008
St. Pius X Catholic High School is proud to feature 2008 graduate, Major Michael Kohne, who exemplifies dedication, service, and the ability to balance various pursuits—a skill he attributes to his formative years at St. Pius X.
After graduating from St. Pius X, Michael attended the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in French, with a minor in Terrorism Studies in 2012. Recently, he completed his Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Affairs with a concentration in Pacific Politics at Saint Louis University in 2023.
Currently, Major Kohne serves as a Foreign Area Officer in the U.S. Army. He is assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, South Korea, where he is undergoing a year of training and internships. His career has taken him across the globe, with previous assignments including deployments to Afghanistan with elite units like the 3rd Cavalry Regiment and Joint Special Operations Command. Michael also served in various leadership roles, from Rifle Platoon Leader to Company Commander, with significant experience in combat operations and advisory missions.
Despite his demanding career, Michael values spending time with his family. He and his wife, Maighdlin, a fellow Major and Blackhawk pilot transitioning to civilian life, are raising two daughters—Maeve (2½) and Adella (9 months). Together, they enjoy outdoor activities, such as running and visiting playgrounds, as well as supporting their favorite sports teams, including Cardinals baseball and Army football.
When reflecting on his time at St. Pius X, Michael credits the school for helping him realize the possibility of balancing academics, sports, clubs, and friendships. "I had always assumed that you had to pick one path," he recalls, "but St. Pius X gave me the opportunity to learn that it's possible to balance them all. That lesson has shaped my career and personal life." One of his fondest memories comes from a history class with Mr. Wood, where the class was divided into Athens and Sparta and engaged in weeks of friendly competition. "He tricked us into learning about history by getting us to compete against each other," Michael fondly remembers. Michael also recalls the sense of trust and community at St. Pius X, noting the atmosphere was so friendly that there were no locks on the lockers—an enduring memory of the school's unique environment.
To current students, Michael encourages a spirit of curiosity and exploration. "If you think you might enjoy a club, sport, or class—try it!" This openness to new experiences has served him well throughout his life, both personally and professionally. As Major Kohne continues his work in Seoul, he remains committed to his ongoing learning and development, including practicing the Korean language. His career, marked by impressive leadership roles and global service, is a testament to the foundation he built at St. Pius X and his willingness to embrace a variety of interests and challenges. St. Pius X is proud to call Major Michael Kohne an alumnus, and we look forward to seeing what he will achieve next!
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