LEXINGTON, Va. Feb. 9, 2024 — The Superintendent regrets to inform the VMI community of the death of Capt. Jack Casey ’19 on Feb. 7. Casey was one of five Marines involved in a helicopter crash in California during a training flight. They were assigned to the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. 

Casey, a physics major, came to VMI from Dover, New Hampshire, and was Company I commander for the 2018-19 academic year. 

“It is difficult to find words in the wake of such a jarring loss,” said Capt. Eli Facemire ’19, VMI associate chaplain and class president of the VMI Class of 2019. “Jack was absolutely loved by our class, and all our brother rats knew that Jack loved them. He bought in fully to his relationships and opportunities, setting an example of friendship and leadership that was looked up to not only by members of the lower classes, but also by his brother rats. His charisma and humility shined through in all he did, and his infectious, fun-loving attitude made him a tremendous joy to simply be around. He made a positive impact on all, and we will cherish our memories of him forever. We, as a class, mourn with his loved ones and those brother rats who knew him best. Times like these are when the ‘brother rat spirit’ that Jack epitomized must be rekindled and embraced.”

“Captain Casey was doing what he had committed to do when he left the Institute, displaying true leadership, courage, and dedication to our country and the Marine Corps,” added Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent. “We are heartbroken for this loss, and I extend my condolences to his brother rats, his family, and those who served beside him.”

Additional details regarding memorial services or gifts will be provided as they become available. 

- VMI -

UPDATE:

The VMI Corps of Cadets gathered Feb. 13 to remember and celebrate the life of Capt. Jack Casey '19. The Regimental and Pipe Bands played Amazing Grace after Taps. Several members of the VMI Class of 2019 were in attendance. The evening was also the 8^th anniversary of their Breakout. 

—VMI Photos by Andrew Partridge ’24.