Soldier Mourns Friend Killed in Iranian Attack Overseas

Sgt. Benjamin Pennington died from injuries sustained in the March 1 attack while serving in Saudi Arabia.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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A soldier is mourning the loss of his friend and fellow soldier, Sgt. Benjamin Pennington, who was killed in an Iranian attack on March 1 while serving in Saudi Arabia. Sgt. Jason Liderbach-Vega, who served with Pennington, described him as an awesome, light-hearted soldier who was always there to support his fellow troops.

Why it matters

Pennington's death is the eighth service member death since February 28, seven of which were combat-related, highlighting the ongoing dangers U.S. troops face while deployed overseas. His loss is deeply felt by his close friend and fellow soldier, Liderbach-Vega.

The details

Pennington was seriously injured in the Iranian attack on March 1 and died from his injuries on Sunday. He was stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado and was serving in support of Operation Epic Fury in Saudi Arabia. Liderbach-Vega, who called Pennington a close friend, said he was an excellent soldier and a great friend who was always there to lift the spirits of his fellow troops.

  • Pennington was seriously injured in an Iranian attack on March 1.
  • Pennington died from his injuries on Sunday.

The players

Sgt. Benjamin Pennington

A soldier stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado who was killed in an Iranian attack while serving in Saudi Arabia.

Sgt. Jason Liderbach-Vega

A soldier who served with Pennington and described him as an awesome, light-hearted friend who was always there to support his fellow troops.

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What they’re saying

“He was awesome, awesome to work with. We lost a really good paratrooper. He was one of the best ones.”

— Sgt. Jason Liderbach-Vega, Soldier who served with Pennington

“There's people you'll never forget, and he's one of them.”

— Sgt. Jason Liderbach-Vega, Soldier who served with Pennington

“He was the one that if you were just having a really bad day and you needed that drive to keep going, you would just look to him. He would do something goofy, something funny. I don't think I ever saw him unhappy, and especially with what you go through in the Army, you need to find that person and hold on to them tight because they're the ones that are going to keep you going.”

— Sgt. Jason Liderbach-Vega, Soldier who served with Pennington

What’s next

The attack that killed Pennington is under investigation, according to the Pentagon.

The takeaway

Pennington's death is a tragic loss for his close friend Liderbach-Vega and the broader military community. His commitment to supporting his fellow soldiers and maintaining a positive attitude, even in the face of the challenges of military service, is a testament to the character of those who serve.