The U.S. Air Force has identified the service member who died after falling approximately 170 feet during a pregame demonstration at Saturday’s University of Texas at San Antonio–Navy football game as Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a decorated 15-year veteran.
Patterson, originally from Fort Stewart, Georgia, was a Tactical Air Control Party instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, at Joint Base San Antonio. He was one of four Airmen scheduled to rappel from the Alamodome rafters roughly 15 minutes before kickoff as part of UTSA’s annual Salute to Armed Forces & Veterans game. During the descent, he reportedly lost control, slid rapidly down the rope, and fell feet-first onto the field near midfield in front of more than 23,000 spectators.
Emergency personnel treated him on the field for approximately 10 minutes before transporting him to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The incident delayed the start of the game by about 10 minutes; UTSA ultimately defeated Navy 38-34.
Patterson’s career reflected both operational expertise and a commitment to training the next generation of special warfare Airmen. In 2022 he was named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year at the Headquarters Air Force level. His decorations included the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, as well as the Army Commendation Medal, Air and Space Achievement Medal, and Army Achievement Medal, each with one oak leaf cluster.
“This tragedy is felt deeply across the 57th Wing,” said Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander. “Tech. Sgt. Patterson and his service mattered immensely to our wing, and to the family, friends, and teammates who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him. Our team is now focused on standing beside Ian’s family, loved ones, and fellow Airmen as we navigate this profound loss together.”
The Air Force has stated that details surrounding the accident remain under investigation. Tactical Air Control Party specialists embed with Army and Marine ground units to direct air and artillery support from forward positions; rappelling and fast-rope techniques are a standard element of their training.
UTSA President Taylor Eighmy extended condolences on behalf of the university community, noting that a day intended for camaraderie and celebration of service members had been marked by profound sadness. The university also activated well-being resources for students, faculty, and staff affected by the incident.
Rest in peace, Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson.
