Air Force Academy mourns loss of cadet, long-time civilian employee, who died in separate incidents this past week
Two people connected to the Air Force died this past week, according to a recent Air Force Academy social media post.
Officials announced Chong Hirthler, a 23-year-civilian employee, was discovered dead on campus Wednesday before sunrise.
According to the academy officials, one of Hirthler’s family members had reached out to USAFA officials when she was late coming home from work. She was discovered dead inside of her car.
Foul play is not suspected at this time, officials said.
10th Air Base Wing Deputy Commander Col. Dan Werner described Hirthler as a, “dedicated 23-year member of our Mitchell Hall Food Service team.”
“She was well-known and loved across the 10th Air Base Wing, the Preparatory School, and throughout the Cadet Area. Cadets, faculty and staff enjoyed her thoughtfulness and mentorship,” Werner said.
“She will be missed by everyone.”
On Thursday in a separate incident, 21-year-old cadet Tristen Burton died in an off-campus motorcycle crash.
According to officers with the Colorado State Patrol, the fatal crash occurred just outside Manitou Springs along Highway 24.
Officials said it appeared Burton was taking a turn when his motorcycle ventured outside of the lane and collided with a guardrail.
USAFA superintendent Lt. General Richard M. Clarke described Burton as a, “trusted peer and respected wingman, who excelled in the classroom and in the gym as an avid weightlifter.”
According to Clarke, Burton came to the Academy from Granger, Texas and was studying mechanical engineering with the hope of someday becoming a special warfare officer.
The motorcycle crash remains under investigation, CSP said.