Pentagon identifies four US troops killed in Iranian drone strike in Kuwait

Four U.S. service members have been identified among six troops killed in an Iranian drone strike at the port of Shuaiba in Kuwait, marking the first American fatalities in the expanding military campaign against Iran. The attack has prompted an outpouring of grief from families, fellow soldiers and local communities.

According to CNN, the Pentagon confirmed the identities of four of the six fallen personnel: Capt. Cody Khork, 35; Sgt. Declan Coady, 20; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39; and Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, 42. 

All were members of the U.S. Army Reserve assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, a sustainment unit based in Iowa. The names of the two remaining service members have not yet been released.

Relatives and community members paid tribute, describing one of the victims as a “heroic son” and another — a mother of two — as having been “almost home” before the fatal strike. Though their military specialities varied, ranging from Multiple Launch Rocket System/Fire Direction Specialist to Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, each had deployed thousands of miles from home in support of U.S. operations.

A source familiar with the incident said there was no siren or advance warning before the drone strike, leaving personnel without time to seek shelter in protective bunkers.

The strike represents the first confirmed U.S. combat deaths since the large-scale operation against Iran was launched Saturday by the United States and Israel. Speaking on Monday, March 2, President Donald Trump said a “big wave” of action against Iran is still ahead. Both Trump and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned that further casualties are possible as the campaign continues.

By Tamilla Hasanova