US Army Captain Stephen O. Adjei, a 31-year-old Logistics officer and instructor at the U.S. Military Academy West Point, has died in a scuba diving incident at Lake Hydra in Pennsylvania. The Army officially announced his death on October 1, 2026. Capt. Adjei was born in Accra, Ghana, and was a longtime resident of Worcester, Massachusetts. He came from a dedicated military family, with his father serving in the Ghanaian Army and later becoming a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army at Fort Drum.
Capt. Adjei earned his commission through the ROTC program in May 2017. He had a distinguished military career, serving as a distribution platoon leader and deploying to Camp Casey, South Korea. He also commanded a Forward Support Company in the 1-187th Infantry Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters.
At the U.S. Military Academy West Point, Capt. Adjei served as an instructor in the Department of Military Instruction Accession Division. He taught MS100 and served as a branch representative for quartermaster, transportation corps, ordnance, and explosive ordnance disposal branches since arriving at the academy in June 2024. His dedication to his students and commitment to his teammates left a lasting impact on the West Point community.
The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office and local officials are investigating the cause of Capt. Adjei's death. The U.S. Military Academy and West Point community have extended their deepest condolences and support to the Adjei family. A memorial service is planned at West Point in October 2026 to honor Capt. Adjei's memory.
Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Joe Katz expressed his condolences to the Adjei family, stating that Capt. Adjei's dedication to his cadets and service to others left a lasting impact on the community. He will be greatly missed by his colleagues and students at West Point. Capt. Adjei also earned the Pathfinder and Air Assault Badges during his military career.
The U.S. Military Academy West Point community is mourning the loss of Capt. Adjei, a highly respected and accomplished officer. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched during his time at the academy. The academy will continue to support the Adjei family during this difficult time.
Capt. Adjei's death is a tragic reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. His service and commitment to his country and community will be remembered for years to come. The investigation into his death is ongoing, and the results will be released once they are available.
Key points
- US Army Captain Stephen O. Adjei, 31, dies in scuba diving incident at Lake Hydra in Pennsylvania.
- Capt. Adjei was a Logistics officer and instructor at the U.S. Military Academy West Point.
- A memorial service is planned at West Point in October 2026 to honor Capt. Adjei's memory.
