Fort Jackson Soldier Dies During Basic Combat Training

Private First Class Veronica L. Wynn, a 39-year, old basic combat training trainee from Huntsboro, Alabama, died on May 2, 2024, during a structured and disciplined pickup in the company area at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Wynn, who was a member of the 3rd Battalion, 13th Infantry Regiment, became unresponsive during the activity and was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 2:30 pm.

Why this matters: This incident at Fort Jackson highlights the importance of safeguarding soldier safety during basic combat training. It calls for a comprehensive investigation to avoid future occurrences and to uphold stringent training and safety measures at military installations, ensuring the protection of soldier lives.

The incident occurred during the reception phase into the training company, before the actual start of basic training. Fort Jackson's commander, Maj. Gen. Jason E. Kelly, expressed his condolences, stating, "Today is an especially sad day for Team Jackson after the loss of one of our newest Soldiers. We are providing comfort and assistance to her family and fellow trainees."

An investigation into the cause of Wynn's death is currently underway, and no additional details have been released regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Fort Jackson spokesperson Nathan Clinebelle confirmed Wynn's passing in a statement released on May 2, 2024. Wynn's next of kin have been notified of her death.

The loss of Pfc. Wynn marks the fifth death at Fort Jackson in the past year, with dozens of soldiers having died at the base since 2020. The incident raises concerns about the safety and well-being of soldiers undergoing basic combat training at the facility.

Fort Jackson, located in Columbia, South Carolina, is the U.S. Army's largest basic combat training center, training approximately 50% of all new soldiers entering the Army each year. The base has a long history, having been established in 1917 to support the United States' entry into World War I. Since then, it has played a vital role in preparing soldiers for various conflicts and peacetime operations.

The probe into Pfc. Wynn's death continues, military officials must thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and take necessary measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The ongoing investigation must be thorough, transparent, and lead to actionable changes to ensure the safety and well-being of all soldiers undergoing training at Fort Jackson.

Key Takeaways

• 39-year-old Pfc. Veronica L. Wynn died during basic combat training at Fort Jackson, SC.
• Wynn became unresponsive during a structured activity and was pronounced dead at a local hospital.
• This is the 5th death at Fort Jackson in the past year, raising concerns about soldier safety.
• An investigation into the cause of Wynn's death is underway, with no details released yet.
• Fort Jackson is the US Army's largest basic combat training center, training 50% of new soldiers annually.