Young US Soldier Declan Coady Dies in Iranian Drone Strike

The tragic death of Declan Coady, the youngest of six US soldiers killed in an Iranian drone strike in Kuwait, has deeply affected his family and the nation. Coady, aged 20, made a call to his brother stationed in Italy just hours before the drone attack occurred on March 3, 2024. His father, Andrew Coady, stated that the timing of the call and the subsequent drone strike at a command center suggest a direct correlation.

Andrew Coady shared with CBS News, “Based off timing, and what we know so far… it was shortly after that phone call that this happened, and his operation center got hit.” Declan was nearing his 21st birthday and had been in regular contact with his family, sending reassuring messages every one to two hours, indicating he was safe and well. He aimed to keep his family at ease during a tense period marked by Iran’s retaliatory actions against US operations.

Declan’s sister, Keira Coady, recounted the moments leading up to the tragic news. She expressed her fears when communication ceased from her brother, who had been actively messaging his family during the military operations known as “Operation Epic Fury.” “After trying to check in, we heard nothing,” she told ABC News. The family’s apprehension grew, and Keira admitted that they all sensed something was amiss when Declan’s messages stopped.

As the family prepared for bed, they received the devastating news. “The rest of that night will forever be one of the worst nights of our lives,” Keira said, recalling the moment the doorbell rang. The family understood immediately the significance of that sound.

Declan Coady was a member of the Army Reserves, having trained as an information technology specialist. He was due for a promotion to sergeant, a title he received posthumously. His father praised him, stating, “He was very good at what he did.”

The Pentagon has confirmed that Declan Coady is one of six servicemembers who lost their lives in the drone strike. Alongside him are Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien, aged 45; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, aged 39; Capt. Cody Khork, aged 35; and Sgt. 1st Class Noah Tietjens, aged 42. Another servicemember, Chief Warrant Officer Three Robert M. Marzan, aged 54, is also believed to be deceased. All six soldiers were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command, responsible for providing essential supplies and support to US forces.

In the wake of the incident, President Donald Trump acknowledged the casualties during a statement to NBC News, noting that the US “expects casualties” in light of the ongoing operations. He plans to visit Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of the fallen servicemembers.

The loss of Declan Coady and his fellow soldiers underscores the human cost of military conflict, marking a moment of profound grief for their families and the nation.