ROTC Cadet From Ridgewood Dies During Basic Training, Army Says

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — An Army cadet from Ridgewood who was attending summer training in Kentucky died during an exercise on Thursday, the U.S. Army announced Saturday.

Neil Edara, a Ridgewood High School alumnus who joined Rutgers' ROTC in September 2021, passed away during training on the Land Navigation site at Fort Knox, the Army said.

He was part of 9th Regiment, Advanced Camp, said Army officials.

They said in a statement, "Edara became unresponsive while conducting Land Navigation Training. He received immediate medical attention and
was medically evacuated by helicopter to the University of Louisville, where he was pronounced deceased by medical professionals. At this time, the cause of death is under investigation.“

Lt. Col. Timothy Sorensen., a professor of military science at Rutgers, said, "Cadet Edara was one of the most dedicated and promising young
leaders I’ve had the privilege to know. His calm collected demeanor and unwavering commitment to excellence left a lasting impact on everyone around him."

He added, "His loss is deeply felt across the entire ROTC and Rutgers community. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

The Army said in a statement, "Safety of cadets and cadre remains U.S. Army Cadet Command’s top priority as training continues. Cadets have access to religious affairs or spiritual counseling and support as required."

Played Sports In Ridgewood

Edara played ice hockey for Ridgewood High School, according to online records.

Edara was 22 and was expected to graduate from Rutgers in 2026, said military publications.

"Thank you Neil," said the Ridgewood police, in a social media post. "Thank you for your service to Ridgewood and our country. It was a privilege working alongside you. May you rest in peace."