Stratford Soldier Dies At Basic Training In South Carolina

FORT JACKSON, SC — A Connecticut National Guard soldier who died while at basic training in South Carolina has been identified as a 29-year-old Stratford man, the National Guard confirmed.

Pvt. Angel Cortes died after suffering a medical emergency during a non-strenuous activity while attending basic combat training, an Army spokesman said. Cortes was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead by medical authorities.

Thomas Byrd, a civilian public affairs officer, said the death is under investigation.

"The loss of one of our own is never easy," said Fort Jackson Commander Brig. Gen. Milford H. Beagle Jr. "We take seriously the safety of everyone at Fort Jackson. Our deepest sympathies go out to the family, friends and teammates of this soldier."

According to the Military Times, a soldier died during basic training in September of 2019 and in January of this year.