Gov. Jared Polis orders flags to half-staff for Fort Carson soldier killed in Iran war attack

Sergeant Benjamin Pennington died after being wounded during a retaliatory attack on U.S. troops in Saudi Arabia.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Colorado Governor Jared Polis has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Sergeant Benjamin Pennington, a 26-year-old Fort Carson soldier who was killed in an attack during the ongoing war with Iran. Pennington was posthumously promoted to staff sergeant and was described by his superiors as a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and a sense of duty.

Why it matters

The death of Sergeant Pennington is the latest casualty in the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which has resulted in the deaths of seven U.S. Army soldiers so far. This order by Governor Polis to lower flags to half-staff is a solemn recognition of Pennington's service and sacrifice in defense of his country.

The details

Pennington was wounded on March 1 during a retaliatory attack by Iran on U.S. troops stationed at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. He died from his injuries on Sunday. Pennington enlisted in the U.S. Army as a unit supply specialist in 2017 and was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson in June 2025. The unit's mission focused on missile warning, GPS, and long-haul satellite communications.

  • Pennington was wounded on March 1, 2026 during the attack in Saudi Arabia.
  • Pennington died from his injuries on March 6, 2026.

The players

Jared Polis

The Governor of Colorado who ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor Sergeant Pennington.

Sergeant Benjamin Pennington

A 26-year-old Fort Carson soldier who was killed in an attack during the ongoing war with Iran. He was posthumously promoted to staff sergeant and was described as a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer.

Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey

The commanding general at the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command who said Pennington "gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved" and that he "will always be remembered that way."

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts are with the family and friends of Sergeant Pennington. The brave members of our military and armed services who put on the uniform in service to our state and country, are our neighbors, friends, and community members. Colorado honors Sergeant Pennington's service and bravery.”

— Jared Polis, Governor of Colorado (Denver7)

“Sergeant Pennington 'gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved.' That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way.”

— Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, Commanding General, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command (Denver7)

What’s next

The memorial service for Sergeant Pennington has not yet been announced.

The takeaway

The death of Sergeant Pennington is a tragic reminder of the ongoing sacrifices made by members of the U.S. military in service to their country. Governor Polis' order to lower flags to half-staff is a solemn recognition of Pennington's bravery and the larger toll the conflict with Iran has taken on Colorado's community.