(Des Moines, IA) — The Department of War has identified four of the six Army Reserve soldiers with the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa, who were killed in action when Iran struck Port Shuaiba in Kuwait on Sunday. Among them is one Iowan: Specialist Declan Coady, 20, from West Des Moines.
“Today, we mourn the loss of Specialist Declan Coady, a young Iowan who heroically answered his nation’s call to duty and gave the ultimate sacrifice,” Governor Kim Reynolds said. “Kevin and I offer our deepest condolences to his family and ask all Iowans to join us in prayer for their healing and comfort.”
“I’m deeply saddened to learn of the passing of these four brave soldiers, including Sgt. Declan Coady, a young man from West Des Moines. These heroes paid the ultimate price to protect against the world’s number one state sponsor of terrorism, Iran, and we will never forget their service and sacrifice. They represent the best of Iowa, and the best of America. Barbara and I are praying for their loved ones as they mourn this great loss, and we continue to pray for the safety of all soldiers who are serving in harm's way.” - Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA)
“My heart is broken today for the Coady family as they grieve this unimaginable loss,” Sen. Janice Weiner (D) said. “SPC Coady’s service and ultimate sacrifice will not soon be forgotten. May his memory be for a blessing. As the situation overseas escalates, I pray for the safety of all U.S. troops in harm’s way.”
“My thoughts, and those of the entire West Des Moines community, are with the Coady family today,” Sen. Renee Hardman (D) said. “I am profoundly moved by Declan Coady’s service to our country. Let’s honor his bravery and sacrifice by treasuring the indelible mark his life has left on our community.”
“The loss of Declan Coady, a young Iowan serving his state and country, is devastating to all of us. We can never be grateful enough for his service and sacrifice. God bless all of our troops who continue to put themselves in harm's way in the coming days. We all hope and pray for their safe return.” Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart.
The other service members named are Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Fla.; Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, of Bellevue, Neb.; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota. The Department of War says they died during an unmanned aircraft system attack. All Soldiers were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.
Photo: - / AFP / Getty Images