USNA Midshipman Dies of Illness

The Naval Academy is mourning the death of Midshipman First Class (senior) Jason Jablonski, 21, of Orchard Park, N.Y., who died yesterday at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center after a fight against leukemia.

“Midshipman Jablonski was well known by fellow Midshipmen for his tremendous optimism and ability to have a positive impact on everyone he met, even in the face a disease like leukemia,” said Naval Academy Commandant Marine Col. Steve Liszewski. “His attitude and fighting spirit can serve as an inspiration to us all, and his passing is a humble reminder about the value of life.”

Jablonski was diagnosed with leukemia in August of this year and was receiving treatment at Walter Reed since the diagnosis. His condition deteriorated significantly over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and his immune system surrendered to an infection. He was surrounded by his family and fellow midshipmen when he died at approximately 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27.

Jablonski is a graduate of Saint Francis High School in Athol Springs, N.Y. At the Naval Academy, Jablonski was a member of the 13th Company and the men's (club) ice hockey team. Academically he was an economics major and was on the Superintendent’s list for the past three semesters and on the Commandant’s list every semester during his time at the academy. He previously held positions in his company as a platoon sergeant and a squad leader.

The Naval Academy is supporting the midshipman’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time of grief. Grief counseling services and support are made available to midshipmen, faculty and staff through chains of command, our chaplains, and the Midshipmen Development Center.

Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.