Four American service members who lost their lives in a March 1 drone strike linked to Iran are being remembered for their dedication and service. The attack occurred during a major U.S. military campaign known as Operation Epic Fury. The Pentagon confirmed the identities of four of the six soldiers killed: Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42, of Nebraska; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of Minnesota; and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of Iowa.
All four were members of the Army Reserve’s 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa. Their unit was responsible for crucial logistical support, helping ensure that deployed troops had the equipment, supplies, and resources needed to carry out operations overseas. Military leaders emphasized that while such roles often take place behind the scenes, they are essential to maintaining military readiness and protecting forces in the field.
Senior officials paid tribute to the fallen soldiers after the attack. Lt. Gen. Robert Harter, chief of the Army Reserve, said their service and the sacrifices made by their families would never be forgotten. Maj. Gen. Todd Erskine of the 79th Theater Sustainment Command also honored the soldiers, noting that the nation’s security depends on individuals willing to serve with courage and commitment.
Among those killed, the story of Sgt. Declan Coady has drawn particular attention. The 20-year-old from West Des Moines had joined the Army Reserve in 2023 as an information technology specialist and was also studying cybersecurity and computer science at Drake University while deployed in Kuwait. Known by family members as a bright and determined young man, he had recently been recommended for promotion to sergeant — a promotion that was granted after his death. As the country reflects on the tragedy, families and communities continue to honor the lives and service of those who were lost.
