A 22-year-old Army ROTC cadet, Neil Edara of Ridgewood, New Jersey, died during summer training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, on July 24, according to the U.S. Army Cadet Command. Edara was participating in land navigation exercises as part of the 9th Regiment, Advanced Camp, when he became unresponsive. He was given immediate medical care at the scene and airlifted to the University of Louisville, where he was pronounced dead.
Edara joined the ROTC program at Rutgers University in September 2021. His death has deeply affected the Rutgers ROTC community. Lt. Col. Timothy Sorensen, professor of military science at Rutgers, praised Edara as a calm and dedicated young leader who made a strong impression on peers and instructors alike.
The cause of death remains under investigation. The Army stated that the safety of all cadets and instructors is a top priority, and support services such as spiritual counseling are available.
Fort Knox is known for its training facilities and also houses the U.S. Bullion Depository, believed to hold a significant portion of the nation’s gold reserves. The site last underwent an official audit in 1976. Recent public figures, including Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have raised calls for a renewed inspection of the vault.
The Army continues its summer training program while honoring the memory of Cadet Edara and supporting those affected by his passing.
