Army Identifies Soldier Death Off Post - October 2026

WEST POINT, N.Y. – The U.S. Military Academy and West Point community extend deepest condolences and support to the family of Army Capt. Stephen O. Adjei who died Saturday, Sept. 26 while conducting certification dive training at Lake Hydra, Pennsylvania.

“Our hearts are with the Adjei family during this difficult time. Capt. Adjei’s dedication to our cadets, commitment to his teammates, and service to others left a lasting impact on our community. He will be greatly missed,” said Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Joe Katz.  

Adjei, 31, served as a Logistics officer, originally from Accra, Ghana, and a longtime resident of Worcester, Mass. As an instructor in the Department of Military Instruction Accession Division, Adjei taught MS100 and served as a branch representative for quartermaster, transportation corps, ordnance, and explosive ordnance disposal branches since arriving to the U.S Military Academy in June 2024. 

Adjei’s service and prior deployments include, distribution platoon leader, deploying to Camp Casey, South Korea, as well as commanding a Forward Support Company in the 1-187th Infantry Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. Adjei's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters as well as earning the Pathfinder and Air Assault Badges. 

Leadership is in close communication providing support to family, friends and unit. A memorial ceremony for the family and unit is scheduled at West Point in October. 

The incident is under investigation.