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In Loving Memory of
Blake Buterbaugh
2006 - 2025
"What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal." - Albert Pike
Remembering Blake
Blake was more than a dedicated cadet- he was a friend, a mentor, and a brother-in-arms. His unwavering positivity and generosity of spirit shone through in every situation, no matter the circumstance. With a smile that could lift any spirit, Blake brought warmth and kindness to all those lucky enough to know him. His genuine compassion made him a friend to all, and his presence will leave a lasting impact on countless lives- from cadets in the detachment, to members of both Silver Wings and Arnold Air Society. Blake exemplified the Air Force Core Values in everything he did, leaving a legacy of integrity and excellence.
Beyond the AFROTC program, Blake’s passions reflected his adventurous spirit. He loved all things related to the ocean, found joy in caring for fish and was always eager to share his passion with others. He was a devoted friend, consistently motivating his peers and acting as a never-ending source of encouragement. Blake found peace flying his drone and riding horseback with friends.
Blake’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched- a legacy of dedication, selflessness, and joy.
Shared Memories
Tributes and Stories
"Blake exemplified what it means to serve with purpose and heart. His leadership inspired those around him to push harder, care deeper, and never lose sight of what it means to be a true wingman. Though his time with us was far too short, his legacy will continue to shape the future of Det 157 and the greater Arnold Air Society and Silver Wings community." - Gregory M. Adams, Col, USAF, Commander, Air Force Detachment 157
"We were so blessed to have had the chance to know Blake, to care for him, and to be cared for by him. He was a leader and a light, someone who brought joy, consistency, and drive into everything he did. Blake led not just through words, but through action and heart. His grit and determination pushed everyone around him to rise to their best, and his legacy will continue to inspire us every day." - Gray Patterson, AAS Squadron Commander, Daniel P. Woodward Squadron
"Blake was like a brother to me. I've know him since he's been at Embry-Riddle and He's been an absolute staple in my well-being. He never failed to check in on his people. He embodied selflessness. I miss him a lot. Blake motivates me to be better. His impact here has been immaculate. My sophomore year I was overweight, unathletic, and barely able to pass an FA. Blake never failed to make time to run with me. Multiple times did we go for runs and something just felt so pure. I attribute all my physical fitness foundations to his knowledge and ability to care for his people." - Mason Burgess, Friend of Blake's
"Blake was always the funniest, most random, but the kindest and most hard working person I've ever met. He dedicated everything to the thing he loved, and I am glad he passed doing something he loved and strived everything for. The times we spent together will always be cherished, the late night shenanigans, training days, the gym, and most importantly of all, the family he created with all of us. It will never be the same without him, but I know he will be rejoicing in heaven watching over us smiling and laughing at our journeys." - Derek Mehlig, Friend of Blake's
"Blake was always so full of joy and energy, and he shared that with everyone around him. He was ambitious and endlessly curious, always asking me a plethora of questions because he knew exactly what he wanted to do and was eager to learn how to get there. Seeing him at AAS meetings was always a highlight; no matter how dark or demanding ROTC work could get, his excitement and optimism made it easier to remember why we do what we do. He was focused, determined, and someone I looked up to when it came to training for my goals and refocusing with a positive attitude. Endlessly thankful for the opportunity to have known and cared for him." - A Wingman of Blake's
"In Fall of 2024, I was working in the uniform room as a support officer. One of the big jobs that I did was allowing cadets to come in a volunteer if they had time throughout the week to organize inventory and help out when needed. Every single week, one name showed up on the sign up sheet, C/Buterbaugh. Had to purposefully take his name off the schedule a few times to give other cadets the chance to volunteer. Regardless of whatever was going on in his week, Blake always found plenty of time to volunteer and give back to others even when no one was watching. He was truly an inspiration." -A Peer of Blake's
"During Arnie candidacy, I left the woodchuck in my car and had to start running back to my car from the sand pit to grab it. He ran back to grab his skateboard since it would be faster, and I tossed him my key to grab the woodchuck. On his way back, he rode over the speed bump and hilariously slipped off. He and the woodchuck went into the air and he body slammed it, breaking the shoebox the woodchuck was in. The poor woodchuck suffered a concussion and was unable to contribute to our mission, eventually leading to its capture by the CTOs. This moment earned him the Brick Award of our candidacy!" - Edgar Gonzalez, A Friend of Blake's
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