Pentagon Releases Names of Four Service Members Killed in Drone Strike
The United States Department of Defense has confirmed the identities of four service members who lost their lives in a drone strike that occurred in Kuwait. The incident took place on Sunday, just one day after the U.S. and Israel launched a military campaign against Iran, which has since retaliated with its own strikes.
All four soldiers were part of the Army Reserve and were stationed at a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. The attack resulted in the deaths of Capt. Cody A. Khork, Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, and Spc. Declan J. Coady. They were all assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command based in Des Moines, Iowa.
- Capt. Cody A. Khork, 35, from Winter Haven, Florida.
- Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens, 42, from Bellevue, Nebraska.
- Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, from White Bear Lake, Minnesota.
- Spc. Declan J. Coady, 20, from West Des Moines, Iowa.
Two other service members have been identified, but their names have not yet been released. According to a source familiar with the event, the command center was hit directly by a drone, causing significant damage. The facility, described as a triple-wide trailer with office space inside, was struck just after 9 a.m. local time.
The attack occurred without warning, and no sirens or alerts were issued to allow troops to evacuate or seek shelter. Hours later, parts of the building were still smoldering, with walls blown outward due to the force of the blast. Despite the presence of concrete barriers around the structure, which is standard for military installations overseas, the facility could not withstand the drone strike.
Military Response and Investigation
Three officials told CBS News that there had been prior discussions about whether the tactical operations center should have been used, given its vulnerability and the concentration of personnel in an area that was not easily defended. However, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed on Monday that the facility was a “fortified” tactical operation center and that only one projectile managed to penetrate the air defenses.
The incident remains under investigation, and the military is working to determine the full extent of the attack and its implications.
Political Reactions
In response to the tragedy, former President Donald Trump vowed to “avenge” the fallen soldiers. He warned that more lives could be lost as the ongoing operation continues. Speaking from Mar-a-Lago, Trump stated:
“America will avenge their deaths and deliver the most punishing blow to the terrorists who have waged war against basically, civilization.”
He also praised the service members as “true American patriots” who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation.
Military Leaders Express Grief
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, honored the fallen soldiers as “the best that our nation has to offer.” He described them as “true examples of what selfless service means” and expressed deep condolences to their families and units.
“Our deepest and heartfelt condolences are with the families, their friends, and their units,” he said. “We grieve with you and we will never forget you.”
Personal Tributes and Memories
Friends and colleagues of the fallen service members have shared personal stories and memories, highlighting their impact on those around them.
A friend of Capt. Khork’s shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, describing how Khork had been a constant presence in his life for over 16 years. He wrote:
“He has shaped me into the person that I am today. He knows more about me than anyone else and was the first person to answer my call, even when I called in the middle of the night. He’s helped me get through the hardest and lowest parts of my life and been there to celebrate the best.”
Khork’s friend concluded with a tribute to his legacy:
“He went out doing what he loved, defending our freedom. RIP brother, Valhalla is waiting for you. We will see each other again.”
Another friend of Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor described her as “a special person, a hell of a troop, and an amazing mom.” She had served in the National Guard and later transferred to the Army Reserve. Amor received numerous awards for her service, including the Army Commendation Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Service Medal.
Local communities in Minnesota have organized a meal train to support her husband, Joey, and their two children, Adeline and Owen.
In Nebraska, Governor Jim Pillen ordered flags to fly at half-staff to honor Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens. He expressed deep sorrow and encouraged the public to pray for the Tietjens family and all military members serving in harm’s way.
