Recently, a 19-year-old Air Force Academy cadet in Colorado was found dead in her dorm room. Reportedly, Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce from Taylor, Texas was found “unconscious” in her dorm room on Wednesday night, where first responders unsuccessfully administered life-saving measures. Koonce was set to graduate with the Class of 2028 and compete on the track and field team.
The cause of Koonce’s death has not been released and the Air Force Academy has launched an investigation has been launched into the matter. The Academy posted about the loss of Koonce on Facebook, giving context into her tragic death. “Today, we mourn the loss of Cadet 4th Class Avery Koonce, 19, of Taylor, Texas,” the post began.”
It continued, “Avery was found unconscious in her dormitory last night. Academy first responders were called and attempted life-saving measures, which were unsuccessful. The cause of death is under investigation. Avery was a member of the Class of 2028 and an athlete on our Women’s Track and Field team.”
The post quoted Academy Superintendent Lt Gen Tony Bauernfeind, who said, “We lost an incredible teammate last night. While only with us for a short time, Avery positively impacted her unit, her intercollegiate team, and her class – her loss will be felt across USAFA. Our team is focused on providing support to Avery’s family, Cadet Squadron 38, the Track and Field team, and the entire Academy family.”
The Facebook message concluded, “A full complement of support services including Academy chaplains, mental health professionals, leaders, and others are in place for cadets, faculty and staff. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Avery’s family, friends and loved ones. Avery, may you find blue skies and tailwinds as you rest forever in peace.
Koonce had recently graduated from Thrall High School, where its superintendent applauded her character and achievements. “She was the epitome of our high school,” Superintendent Tommy Hooker told the Austin American-Statesman. “She is what you would want in a well-rounded student. Our community is at kind of at a loss with our feelings. We are just kind of devastated.”
Texas Congressman Pete Sessions (R-TX), also weighed in on the tragic loss. “I was incredibly saddened to hear about the loss of USAFA Cadet Avery Koonce. It was my honor to nominate Cadet Koonce to the US Air Force Academy where she had begun her studies, planning to major in biology and minor in kinesiology with hopes of becoming a pilot physical therapist. Cadet Koonce was a talented athlete and member of the USAFA track team. She will be remembered by her community in Thrall, Texas as an exceptional leader. Please join me in praying for her loved ones,” Sessions said.
Featured image credit: United States Air Force Academy / Facebook
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