The U.S. Naval Academy and the Navy football community continue to remember David R. Forney, a talented senior offensive lineman whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 22.
A native of Walkersville, Maryland, Forney was a senior at the U.S. Naval Academy and a three-year letterwinner for Navy football. During his final three seasons, he played in 39 consecutive games and started all 13 games at guard during the 2019 season.
That season became one of the memorable campaigns in Navy football history. The Midshipmen won 11 games, captured the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, shared the American Athletic Conference West Division title, and finished the year with a Liberty Bowl victory. Forney was part of the offensive line that helped Navy establish itself as one of the nation’s leading rushing teams.
Forney died on February 20, 2020, after he was found unresponsive in Bancroft Hall. At the time, the Naval Academy said the cause of death remained under investigation and that foul play was not suspected.
Beyond his accomplishments on the field, Forney was remembered within the Navy community as a humble leader, loyal friend, and dedicated teammate. His passing left a profound sense of loss among his classmates, teammates, coaches, friends, and the wider Naval Academy community.
His memory has continued to be honored by those who followed him. In July 2026, Navy announced that senior guard Hoke Smith II would wear No. 68 in Forney’s honor, keeping his number and memory connected to the Navy offensive line.
David Forney’s legacy extends beyond statistics, victories, and football honors. He was a son, friend, teammate, midshipman, and young man whose future held tremendous promise. Years after his passing, his memory remains a meaningful part of Navy football and the enduring history of the U.S. Naval Academy.
