San Antonio, Texas — An Air Force sergeant who died after falling approximately 170 feet during a rappelling demonstration at a college football game had been selected to perform the stunt for the first time, his father said.
Tech. Sgt. Ian “Patty” Patterson, 33, died after falling from the rafters of the Alamodome ahead of Saturday’s football game between the University of Texas at San Antonio and the U.S. Naval Academy. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from his family, fellow service members and the military community.
Patterson had served in the Air Force for 15 years and was remembered by his father as a devoted husband, father and military professional.
Father Says Son Was Excited About the Rappelling Demonstration
Patterson’s father, John Patterson, said his son had wanted an opportunity to participate in the annual stadium demonstration and was excited when he was selected.
“I was very excited. I believe he wanted to do it last year as well,” Patterson’s father told a local news outlet. “He didn’t do it last year. So this year he had the opportunity.”
The demonstration involved four military specialists descending from the stadium rafters toward the football field using ropes.
During the performance, Patterson appeared to lose control of his descent before falling approximately 170 feet, according to the reported account of the incident.
The circumstances surrounding the fatal fall have not been fully detailed in the information provided about the incident.
Emergency Crews Tried to Save the Air Force Sergeant
Medical personnel treated Patterson on the field for approximately 10 minutes following the fall. He was then transported from the stadium by golf cart before being taken to a hospital, where he later died.
The incident occurred before the scheduled college football matchup, turning what was intended to be a military demonstration into a tragedy.
Patterson was assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, at Joint Base San Antonio. He served as a Tactical Air Control Party instructor, a role associated with training personnel who coordinate air support for ground operations.
Further details about the circumstances of the fall and any formal investigation were not included in the account provided.
Patterson Joined the Air Force After High School
Patterson grew up in a military family. His father had served in the Army, and Patterson chose to pursue military service himself shortly after finishing high school.
“He loved the Air Force. He joined right out of high school, and that’s what he wanted,” John Patterson told the outlet.
His father said the military offered his son the opportunity to build a career while developing discipline, integrity and a strong professional foundation.
“He knew that the military would give him a solid career and a solid base, and give him discipline and integrity and everything that wraps up a good military individual,” John Patterson said.
During his 15-year career, Patterson traveled internationally and served in several locations, including South Korea, Germany and Colorado, before moving to the San Antonio area.
His career also included recognition for his work as an instructor. According to Nellis Air Force Base, Patterson was named the 2022 Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year at the Headquarters Air Force level.
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His service record and professional achievements have become part of the tributes shared following his death.
Father Shares Emotional Tribute to His Son
As the family grieves, John Patterson spoke about the suddenness of losing his son and the difficulty of processing the tragedy.
“It just takes a split second and I got the waterfalls going,” he said, describing his emotions.
He also wanted people to remember the person behind the uniform.
“I just want to let people know that he was a wonderful man,” the grieving father added. “I love him.”
The comments reflect the family’s loss as relatives and friends remember Patterson not only for his military service but also for his role as a husband and father.
TACP Foundation Supports Patterson’s Family
Patterson’s fellow Airmen and members of the Tactical Air Control Party community have also paid tribute to him. A fundraiser was established to support his family following his death.
The TACP Foundation described Patterson as a devoted family man, leader and trusted colleague in a statement shared online.
“TSgt Ian ‘Patty’ Patterson was a loving father, a leader, and a brother in arms. Those who knew and served alongside him remember a caring father, a trusted teammate, and a tested operator. His loss is deeply felt across the TACP community,” the foundation wrote.
The organization also pledged continued support for his loved ones and fellow service members.
“Ian, we honor you as a loving father, a leader, and a brother in arms. We will carry your memory forward by standing shoulder to shoulder with your family and your teammates through the days ahead,” the foundation added.
“Rest in peace, brother. Our mission continues. Your family will not walk this road alone.”
Patterson’s death has left his family and military colleagues mourning a man whose career spanned 15 years of service. As tributes continue, his loved ones are remembering his dedication to the Air Force, his achievements as an instructor and, above all, his place in their family.
What would you like people to remember most about service members who lose their lives while carrying out military duties? Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
