Lieutenant General Richard M. Clark Releases Statement on Sudden Passing of 21-Year-Old Player

During a 2016 NCAA football game between the Fresno State Bulldogs and the Air Force Falcons, an Air Force helmet sat on the sidelines.

The Air Force Academy announced on Tuesday that a 21-year-old cadet, who played as an offensive lineman for the Falcons football team, passed away on Monday following what was described as a “medical emergency” while he was on his way to class. Hunter Brown had left his dormitory when he suddenly fell ill, and despite efforts by first responders, he could not be revived. The academy did not specify the exact cause of his death.

With heavy hearts we share the loss of a cadet.
C3C Hunter Brown died Monday after suffering a medical emergency while on his way to class.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates and fellow cadets.#NeverForgotten pic.twitter.com/amPlznZqTC

— U.S. Air Force Academy (@af_academy) January 10, 2023

Lieutenant General Richard M. Clark, the Air Force Academy superintendent, expressed condolences in a statement, highlighting Brown’s role as a standout offensive lineman and his high standing within his squadron. He emphasized the deep sorrow felt across the academy community and extended sympathy to Brown’s family, squadron, and all who knew him.

Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana, Brown was a sophomore pursuing a major in management with a minor in French. He had contributed to successful seasons with the Falcons football team in both 2021 and 2022.

Football coach Troy Calhoun remembered Brown as a source of pure joy, deeply admired by his teammates. Calhoun praised Brown’s toughness, strong work ethic, and his selfless support for others, noting that Brown’s parents, Candyce and Dustin, had raised an exceptional son who positively impacted everyone around him. The coach expressed love for Brown, offering thoughts and prayers for his family and acknowledging the profound loss felt by the entire Air Force Academy community.