Laurel Klinge, Missouri Gamma, United States Army

Laurel Klinge’s military career began with a letter. When she received a memo from the United States Military Academy at West Point in high school, she was intrigued—enough to research, ask questions and ultimately pursue a path not as common for women at the time. She became a member of just the ninth class of women to attend a U.S. service academy. “Many men still didn’t think women had a place in the military,” Laurel says. “We had to be very determined, work hard and never quit.” She was part of the early generations of women paving the way, as 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of women attending U.S. service academies.  

A 1988 graduate of West Point, Laurel commissioned as an Army officer and spent nearly 11 years on active duty before retiring. Her assignments took her across the United States and overseas, including more than four years in Germany and time in Hawaii. She deployed during Operation Desert Storm, leading convoy operations as a truck platoon leader and earning the distinction of combat veteran. Laurel also completed Airborne School, Jungle Warfare School and Inspector General School, embracing each opportunity to expand her skillset.  

Twice selected for company command, Laurel found fulfillment in building strong, cohesive teams. As a commander of a transportation company in Germany supporting the 3rd Infantry Division, she fostered a culture where soldiers felt empowered and valued. Under her leadership, the unit was recognized as the best transportation company in the Army. She credits much of her leadership approach to lessons learned from senior leaders early in her career. “My strength is making each team member feel valuable,” she says. “It’s important to let every member participate and contribute, so they can learn and lead in the future.”  

Although West Point didn’t offer sorority life, Laurel always felt a connection to Pi Phi through her family. She is the 13th Pi Phi in her family, part of a legacy that spans generations. In many ways, she says, she “was raised as a Pi Phi,” surrounded by the traditions and values of our sisterhood long before her own initiation.  

In 1997, while living in the U.S., she was initiated into the Missouri Gamma Chapter as an alumna, surrounded by her mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great-aunt—three generations of Pi Phi women.  

Now based in Texas, Laurel continues to give back to Pi Phi. She has served as an alumnae club president, a legislative volunteer and currently supports alumnae clubs across the country. As her family moved throughout her military career, alumnae clubs provided connection in each new place. “When I was first an alumna initiate, I was worried I wouldn’t be accepted as a ‘real Pi Phi,’ but found the opposite to be true,” Laurel says. “Our sisters welcomed and embraced me and elected me to leadership roles simply because I am a Pi Phi. I’ve been overwhelmed by the warmth and genuine support I’ve received.”


Published May 1, 2026