Member of US Army parachute team dies in training accident
Homestead, Florida (AP) — A member of the U.S. Army paratrooper team has died after sustaining injuries during a training jump at Homestead Air Reserve Base in Homestead, Florida.
Sergeant 1st Class Michael Ty Kettenhofen died Monday, the army said in a press release. He joined the Golden Knights parachute team in 2020 and completed over 1,000 jumps with the military.
“The U.S. Army Parachute Team is deeply saddened by the loss of one of our own,” said Lieutenant Colonel Andy Moffit, commander of the Golden Knights Parachute Team. He noted that Kettenhofen is remembered “for his sense of humour, joie de vivre and achievements as a senior non-commissioned officer and demonstration parachutist.”
The accident remains under investigation. The military said no additional details are available.
“Our hearts and faith are with his family and friends as we mourn and heal with them. Ty will be honored and remembered as a golden knight, soldier and friend.
The Golden Knights are made up of several expert teams, including parachute teams, airplane pilots, and the behind-the-scenes people who handle the jump logistics.
Homestead Air Reserve Base is located 35 miles south of Miami.