3 Quick Facts on Kris Kristofferson: The Most Interesting Man in Country Music History

In the context of his entire life, Kris Kristofferson’s songwriting is somehow among the least interesting facts about him. The country music renegade died Saturday (Sept. 28) at his home in Maui, Hawaii. He was 88 years old. Here are three things you should know about the man who excelled in music, movies, and the U.S. military.

1. He Was a Rhodes Scholar

Established in 1902, the Rhodes Scholarship is the oldest (and arguably the most prestigious) in the world. Notable Rhodes Scholars include former U.S. President Bill Clinton, Olympic gold medalist Bill Bradley, and singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson.

The “Highwayman” singer received the scholarship in 1958, earning his postgraduate degree in English literature from the University of Oxford’s Merton College two years later. He began writing songs during his time abroad—although of course, that didn’t stop him from playing collegiate rugby and earning a Blue for boxing.

2. Kris Kristofferson Was a Decorated Collegiate Athlete

Prior to studying abroad, Kris Kristofferson attended Pomona College in Claremont, California. He built up an unbelievable resume during his time there. In addition to playing standoff on the school’s rugby team, Kristofferson was also starting left end on the varsity football team and a Golden Gloves boxer.

Not content to merely play sports, he also served as sports editor of the college paper and cadet commander of the campus ROTC battallion.

[RELATED: 3 Incredible Duets for the Ages Featuring Kris Kristofferson]

3. He Had An Impressive Military Career

The son of a U.S. Army Air Corps officer, Kris Kristofferson joined the U.S. Army in 1960 as a second lieutenant. There, he completed Ranger School and became a helicopter pilot after receiving training in Fort Rucker, Alabama. He also ascended to the rank of captain.

Somehow, Kristofferson found the time to form a band while stationed in West Germany with the 8th Infantry Division. When that tour concluded in 1965, he was assigned to teach English literature at the storied West Point. Instead, Kristofferson abandoned his military career and moved to Nashville to pursue songwriting full-time.

Kristofferson received the Veteran of the Year Award at the 2003 American Veterans Awards ceremony. His friend and frequent collaborator, Willie Nelson, presented him with the honor.

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