Cadet Fourth Class Avery Koonce, 19, of Taylor, Texas, was scheduled to graduate in 2028 and was a member of the women’s track and field team.
The United States Air Force Academy in Colorado has initiated an investigation this week after a 19-year-old cadet was found dead in her dormitory a few days ago.
Fourth-class cadet Avery Koonce, 19, from Taylor, Texas, was “found unconscious in her dormitory Wednesday night, and emergency services’ attempts to save her were unsuccessful,” the Academy said in a statement.
Koonce was set to graduate in 2028 and was a member of the women’s track and field team.
“We have lost an incredible teammate… Although she was with us for only a short time, Avery had a positive impact on her unit, her intercollegiate team, and her class; her loss will be felt throughout USAFA,” said the Academy’s superintendent, Lieutenant General Tony Bauernfeind.
“Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Squadron 38, the track and field team, and the entire Academy family,” he added.
“Avery, may you find blue skies and favorable winds as you rest in peace forever,” the Academy concluded.
Koonce attended Thrall High School, according to the Austin American-Statesman, which cited the district superintendent noting that she was the student council president and a leader in the National Honor Society.
“She was the epitome of our high school. She is what one would expect from a well-rounded student. Our community is a bit bewildered with our emotions. We are a little devastated,” Superintendent Tommy Hooker told the newspaper.
U.S. Representative Pete Sessions, who nominated Koonce to attend the United States Air Force Academy near Colorado Springs, also told the Austin American-Statesman that he was “incredibly saddened to hear of Cadet Koonce’s loss.”
“She was a thoughtful and articulate young woman, well-prepared for success at the U.S. Air Force Academy… Cadet Koonce was a remarkable leader, and her community in Texas and her fellow cadets at USAFA feel her loss,” Sessions added.
