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U.S. Airman Ian Patterson, a 15-year veteran from Georgia, died during a rappelling demonstration at the Alamodome in San Antonio prior to a college football game between the Navy and the University of Texas at San Antonio. Patterson was initially descending toward the ground when spectators witnessed him fall. The demonstration, part of a pregame program for the "Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans" game, occurred on Saturday.

Patterson, who served as a Tactical Air Control Party instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, had numerous decorations and commendations.

An investigation into the incident is underway. The fall, captured on video, showed Patterson descending quickly feet-first amidst fans in the stands and a band and cheerleaders. He was treated on the field for several minutes before being taken away in an ambulance. The start of the game was delayed for about 10 minutes following the fall. UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor remarked that the crowd's energy was noticeably diminished upon their return to the field.

Patterson was one of four military service members scheduled to participate in the rappelling demonstration. The service members were part of a team embedded with Army and Marine units, assisting in directing air and artillery strikes from forward ground locations. Their training includes rapid rope descent from helicopters, sometimes from heights of 100 feet or more. Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander, expressed that the tragedy was deeply felt across the 57th Wing.