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

It was gathered that 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.

Speaking on behalf of the military, Commandant of Cadets Brigadier General Joe Katz condoled with the family of Mr Adjei and lauded the deceased’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,” Mr Katz said. 

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

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

Mr Adjei’s service and prior deployments included 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, and 101st Airborne Division. 

The awards he won comprised the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters as well as earning the Pathfinder and Air Assault Badges. 

Meanwhile, the military noted that the incident resulting in the death of Mr Adjei was under investigation.