News Detail

LT. John P. O’Connor, USMC

What do you do for a living now?
- I am currently a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps. I am stationed in Quantico Virginia, Camp Barrett at The Basic School. I am currently training to be a rifle platoon commander like all Marine Officers. 

Do you think your time at Mount Pisgah helped you to pursue this? If yes, how?
- Yes, I do believe that my time at Pisgah helped me get to where I am today. It was during my time at Pisgah where I set my sights on becoming a Marine. Pisgah successfully helped me get into a college where I could earn my degree and continue pursuing my goal of becoming a Marine Officer.

Did you ever envision doing this while you were at Mount Pisgah?
- Yes, it was at Pisgah where I set my sights on becoming college football player and Marine Officer. I believe that the sports and academics helped me become mentally strong and physically tough. 

Where do you live now?
- I live on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Camp Barrett, Virginia. Just forty-five minutes south of DC.

Did you enjoy your time at Mount Pisgah?
- I did enjoy my time at Pisgah. Contrary to the scowl I put on pretty much every day, I did enjoy my time there. Especially competing in sports. I formed strong bonds with the guys I played with. Especially to that 2013 Region Champion team.

Who was your favorite teacher and why?
- Favorite teacher is Coach Messinger by far. Like me he is quiet, competitive and tough. I knew Coach Messinger before I even went to school at Pisgah. He is a man of amazing character. Someone who inspires me every day. He took care of my injuries during sports as the trainer. He also expected a lot from me and I never wanted to let him down. That goes for all teachers and coaches at Pisgah. I never wanted to let any one of them down.  

What was your most memorable moment as a student?
- My most memorable moment at Pisgah was becoming Region Champs in Football. The guys on that team are special. I’d do anything for any one of them. 

Describe Mount Pisgah in 3 words?
- God. Family. Friends.

What is your lasting impression of Mount Pisgah?
- My lasting impression of Pisgah is a place of excellence in all areas. The small class sizes helped enable me take AP courses and get into the college I wanted. I’ll always remember the people who made it a great place for me and continue to make Pisgah great including Mrs. Anthony, Mr. Whitehurst, Coach Forrester and Coach Riley. 

Semper Fidelis,

LT. John P. O’Connor, USMC
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