Academy mourns devastating loss in cadet wing

  • Published
  • U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications

The U.S. Air Force Academy mourns the loss of Cadet 1st Class K. Emily Jean Foster, 23, of Eagle, Idaho. Cadet Foster passed away on Tuesday while at home with her family.

“We were deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of our teammate, Cadet First Class K. Emily Jean Foster, over the holiday break. She was a stellar cadet, leader, mentor and friend throughout her time here at the Academy and we are shaken by her loss,” said Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, U.S. Air Force Academy Superintendent. “We will support Emily’s family, Cadet Squadron 14, her friends and colleagues and the entire Academy team during this difficult time.”

A member of the Class of 2025, Cadet Foster was a Geospatial Sciences major and a Soaring Instructor Pilot with the 94th Flying Training Squadron. She graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School in 2021 and was selected to attend Undergraduate Pilot Training following commissioning.

A full complement of support services including Academy chaplains, mental health professionals, leaders, and others are in place for cadets, faculty and staff.

Official photo: Cadet 1st Class K. Emily Foster

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Statement from Cheryl and Jeremy Foster (parents):

“Emily came home at Thanksgiving with extreme exhaustion and severe headaches. It was discovered on December 14 that Emily had two highly aggressive and advanced brain tumors. On December 31, she passed away from these aggressive brain tumors. Emily made a personal decision years ago to put her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her greatest desire was to honor Him in her life, character, conduct, and care of others. She lived by what it says in Philippians 3:12-14 and desired to press toward the goal of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. We are confident she is with Jesus and that in His presence is fullness of joy."

For more information, please contact U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications at (719) 333- 7731 or email media.rel@afacademy.af.edu.