Tristen Riley Burton was born on June 26, 2002 in Katy, Texas, to Jeffrey and Marjorie (Wilkins) Burton. He grew up with an older brother, Tucker, younger brother, Travis, and baby sister, Tessa. Tristen loved his family deeply. C2C Tristen Burton was a member of Cadet Squadron 31 while attending the United States Air Force Academy. He was an extraordinary person. Passionate but reserved, a mechanical engineering major whose hard work in the books was only outmatched by his physical training. His doolie (freshman) year cadre regarded him as a PT god, the type of guy to smoke all his upper 3. He also loved lifting heavy in the gym but never boasted. He was too humble for that. He used his strength to inspire others, whether friends in the gym or doolies in training.

In his downtime, Tristen enjoyed drinking old fashions, playing rocket league or racing games with his buddies, and above all, riding his red motorcycle. He was high speed in everything he did. Tristen wanted to fly F-22s, which matched his high speed way of life. Many knew him for his kindness and little smirk or grin he’d have when he was happy. On Thursday, 29 Feb, he and another cadet, Nate, were riding motorcycles. Nate was his best friend and roommate. They were the same major, shared many classes, and loved the same hobbies. During this ride, Tristen found the limit of his bike and suffered a high speed crash. Nate immediately responded to his brother’s side. As troopers responded to help, they found Nate administering aid. Tristen had already passed. He spent his final moments in the loving presence of his best friend. My friends, every breath we breathe is a gift. We are Tristen’s family, and though he is gone, as we live, we will always love him. To our brother, C2C Tristen Burton, here’s a toast.

All proceeds from the sale of Tristen’s bracelets will go to his family or a charity of their choosing, as well as toward providing bracelets for his family members.