This week, Iowa is grieving.
Kelly and I are heartbroken alongside every Iowan learning that Sergeant Declan Coady of West Des Moines and Major Jeffrey O’Brien of Waukee were killed in Kuwait while serving with the 103rd Sustainment Command — the Army Reserve unit based right here in Des Moines.
Sgt. Coady was just 20 years old. He was studying cybersecurity at Drake University, taking classes online from Kuwait while serving his country. He dreamed of becoming an officer and building a future in service. Just last week, he told his father he’d been recommended for a promotion — one he ultimately received posthumously.
Major O’Brien was a devoted husband, father, and man of deep faith. Even while serving 7,000 miles from home, he found ways to stay present for his family. He was a steady leader in uniform, a role model to his community, and above all, a loving dad to his kids.
Declan and Jeffrey could have chosen an easier path. Instead, they chose service. They put on the uniform, put service before self, and ultimately gave their lives defending our nation.
We also mourn the loss of four other brave Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice alongside them: Captain Cody Khork, Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens, Sergeant First Class Nicole Amor, and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan.
Today, I led my colleagues on the House floor to honor all these fallen servicemembers with a moment of silence. ⬇️
As a military family, Kelly and I understand the weight every military family carries — and the quiet fear that one day the worst phone call imaginable might come. This week, the Coady and O’Brien families received that call. And today, all of Iowa stands beside them.
Bottom Line: Declan Coady and Jeffrey O’Brien lived the values that define the very best of our country — service, courage, and sacrifice. Iowa stands with their families, and we will never forget the price they paid for our freedom.