One of Morrow High School’s notable football alumni was among the passengers on an American Airlines flight that tragically collided with a U.S. Army helicopter near Washington last week. Brian Ellis, who graduated from the Clayton County high school in 1989, went on to complete his studies at the U.S. Naval Academy four years later. Ellis was among the 67 individuals who lost their lives in the crash on Wednesday night, including at least three others with connections to Georgia.
Lt. Col. Brian Ellis, a 1993 graduate of the Naval Academy and a dedicated Marine, was remembered by friends and family as a selfless individual who always prioritized helping others. Tragically, Ellis was among the 67 victims of a plane crash near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. A resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, Ellis had served over two decades in the U.S. Marine Corps and was working as a senior manager at Deloitte at the time of his passing.
Ellis was traveling on American Airlines Flight 5342, returning home from a business trip in Kansas. The crash occurred when the plane was near landing, colliding with an Army helicopter and resulting in no survivors.
John Schofield, representing the U.S. Naval Academy Alumni Association, expressed condolences, highlighting Ellis’s connection to the Naval Academy and his contributions as a former Navy football player. Ellis, who always went by his middle name, was recognized as a multi-talented individual during his high school years in Georgia, excelling in both academics and sports.
At the Naval Academy, Ellis formed a close bond with three other students, Chad Chatlos, Mark McGinnis, and Ché Bolden, all of whom played football together. Despite facing injuries during his time as a quarterback, Ellis’s resilience and determination were evident as he returned to play in significant games.
After graduation, Ellis and his friends maintained their close relationship, living near each other in Annapolis and continuing to engage in activities such as coaching and playing sports. Ellis was described as an organized and detail-oriented person who was approachable and always willing to help others.
His dedication to family was paramount, particularly to his two sons, Jack and Luke. Ellis and his friends ensured that their children grew up together by organizing family vacations. His commitment extended to coaching his son’s high school lacrosse team, where he was regarded as a positive influence.
Throughout his military career, Ellis served as an aviator and later as an analyst and strategic communicator. His professional excellence and reputation as a quality officer were well recognized. The irony of his passing, given his extensive experience as a helicopter pilot in dangerous environments, was a poignant aspect of his death.
Ellis is survived by his two sons, parents, and siblings, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, and family devotion.