SAT . FALLEN AT 20: Iowa Soldier Killed in Iranian Strike Remembered as a Light to All Who Knew Him
PORT SHUAIBA, Kuwait — A 20-year-old American soldier with a heart for service, both in uniform and in his community, has died in the line of duty.
Sgt. Declan J. Coady was killed March 1, 2026, when an Iranian strike hit a U.S. facility in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. Five other U.S. service members also lost their lives in the attack.
Coady had served in the U.S. Army Reserve since 2023 and was assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command — a critical unit responsible for delivering food, fuel, water, ammunition, transportation equipment, and supplies to support operations overseas.
Born in West Des Moines, Coady was more than a soldier. He was a college sophomore pursuing an Information Technology degree at Drake University, balancing military service with academic ambition.
Just last week, he told his father, Andrew Coady, that he had been recommended for promotion from specialist to sergeant — a promotion he would receive posthumously.
Through tears, his sister Keira shared the heartbreak now felt by so many:
“It’s just really hard… I just really wish I got to tell him I love him one more time because he was just so amazing and kind.”
Coady’s commitment to service began long before he wore a military uniform. An Eagle Scout with Troop 242, he chose to dedicate his Eagle Scout project to helping others by supporting the Iowa Homeless Youth Centers — a reflection of the compassion that defined his life.
A verified GoFundMe page created by his aunt, Marianne Crandall, is now helping the family navigate their unimaginable loss. In a statement, she wrote:
“Declan was more than a soldier. He was a son, a family member, a friend, and a light in the lives of those who knew him. He served his country with honor, courage, and dedication, embodying the very best of what it means to wear the uniform.”
At just 20 years old, Sgt. Declan J. Coady had already lived a life of purpose — serving his country, uplifting his community, and loving his family fiercely.
Now, a hometown grieves. A university mourns. A nation remembers.
Sgt. Coady, you did all you could do.
Rest easy, soldier.
