Indianola Service Member Among Those Killed In Kuwait

Two Iowa soldiers were killed in Kuwait, including one with a Warren County connection.

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The U.S. Department of War confirmed that Major Jeffrey R. O’Brien, 45, of Indianola, was killed during a kamikaze drone strike in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait, on Sunday.

O’Brien was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command in Des Moines, Iowa.

This is the second Iowan soldier to be killed in the Middle East while supporting Operation Epic Fury, the U.S.-led operation to neutralize the threat of the Iranian regime. Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, was killed in a strike on Tuesday.

Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor the fallen Iowans.

In her statement, the governor said,

Our hearts are broken by the deaths of Major Jeffrey O’Brien and Sergeant Declan Coady, two brave Iowa soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to secure freedom and peace,” said Governor Kim Reynolds in a media release. “On behalf of a grateful state, Kevin and I offer our prayers and condolences for their families, and we ask all Iowans to stand united in support of our fallen soldiers and those who loved them

On her social media, Rep. Brooke Boden said,

I am heartbroken to share that my friend, Jeffrey R. O’Brien, died March 1, 2026, while serving in Kuwait in support of Operation Epic Fury. Jeff and his wife have been dear friends for years, and I had the privilege of teaching their children dance. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a steady, faithful presence in the lives of those who knew him. His love for his family was unmistakable.

Gubernatorial candidate Adam Steen said,

The entire state of Iowa grieves tonight. We feel this loss together – in our towns, our churches, and our homes. We are praying for his family and for every man and woman currently serving our country. May God protect our troops, comfort those who mourn, and spare our state from another loss like this.

These tragic losses remind us that while the fight for security and liberty often take place in far off lands, they can affect our local communities. 

Please join us in praying for the loved ones of those lost and for God’s protection on our service members.