US Army captain Stephen Adjei, Ghanaian-born, dies in underwater training incident

Ghanaian-born United States Army Captain Stephen Adjei has died after going missing underwater during a certification dive at Lake Hydra in Pennsylvania, Gazette NGR reports.

A rescue operation involving divers from another group was immediately launched to save the 31-year-old, but he was pronounced dead after being brought ashore despite efforts by medical officers to revive him.

Commandant of Cadets Brigadier General Joe Katz condoled with the Adjei family on behalf of the military, praising the late captain’s commitment to his teammates.

“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,” Katz said.

Adjei, who was originally from Accra, served as logistics officer and instructor in the Department of Military Instruction Accession Division before his death.

He also served as branch representative for quartermaster, transportation corps, ordnance and explosive ordnance disposal branches after arriving at the U.S. Military Academy in June 2024.

His prior service included a stint as distribution platoon leader with a deployment 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.

His awards included the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters, alongside the Pathfinder and Air Assault Badges.

The military said the incident that led to his death remains under investigation.