10/20/2026
You may have missed this unfortunate incident prior to a college football game this past weekend, but sadly, a service member passed away from injuries suffered in a fall during rappelling demonstration.
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HONORING THE LIFE OF TSGT. IAN PATTERSON, U.S. AIR FORCE: May you rest in God’s eternal peace. The U.S. Air Force has identified Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson as the service member who tragically lost his life following a rappelling accident at the Alamodome in San Antonio on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Tech. Sgt. Patterson served 15 years in the United States Air Force and was assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, at Joint Base San Antonio. He was also named the 2022 Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year, a testament to his dedication and professionalism.
Originally from Fort Stewart, Georgia, Tech. Sgt. Patterson devoted a significant portion of his life to serving his country and his fellow Airmen. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, fellow Airmen, and everyone affected by this tragedy. No words can fully express the loss felt when a service member dies in the line of duty.
Rest easy, Sergeant. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. You will not be forgotten. Semper Supra. Gone, but never forgotten | 🇺🇸⚫️🔵⚫️🇺🇸