Ran track and cross country; was a member of the marching band; participated with the USNA Gospel Choir.
So sad. He sounds like a wonderful kid. I cannot imagine drugs or suicide, but you never know.
Sad. We’ll see what any investigation or further info reveal, but suicide would be my first guess. The USNA is of course a great school with a great tradition, but my understanding is that it can also be a very stressful, soul-crushing place.
Growing up, one of my best friends ended up going there. I remember meeting up with him and others during Christmas vacation freshman year of college, and everyone else was really excited about their colleges (partying, sorority girls etc etc), but my Annapolis friend was miserable. His executive summary: “The place really sucks.” He said that he was depressed as hell and that every day he kicked himself for not taking up UCLA on their offer, as he imagined himself in SoCal having a fun life... which he probably would have. He wanted to quit, but his parents were not supportive of that idea, indicating they wouldn’t be helping him financially.