Community Mourns 26-Year-Old KY Soldier Killed in Iran War

Sgt. Benjamin Pennington died of wounds sustained in Iranian attack at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Twenty-six-year-old Sgt. Benjamin Pennington of Glendale, Kentucky died on Sunday from injuries sustained during an Iranian attack at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, according to the Pentagon. The community is mourning the loss of Pennington, who was described as service-minded and always wanting to be a soldier.

Why it matters

Pennington's death is a tragic reminder of the human toll of the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which has escalated in recent years. His passing has deeply impacted the close-knit community of Glendale, where he was known and respected.

The details

Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command based at Fort Carson, Colorado. A dignified transfer for Pennington's return to the U.S. took place at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware on Monday, with Vice President J.D. Vance joining Pennington's family. The military reports six other soldiers have been killed and 140 soldiers have been injured, at least eight seriously, in the Iran conflict.

  • Pennington died of his wounds on Sunday, March 10, 2026.
  • Pennington's dignified transfer took place at Dover Air Force Base on Monday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Sgt. Benjamin Pennington

A 26-year-old soldier from Glendale, Kentucky who died from injuries sustained in an Iranian attack in Saudi Arabia.

Tim Pennington

The father of Sgt. Benjamin Pennington, who was described as heartbroken over his son's death.

Keith Taul

The Hardin County Judge Executive, who knew the Pennington family and said the community is mourning the loss.

J.D. Vance

The Vice President of the United States, who joined Pennington's family for the dignified transfer of his remains at Dover Air Force Base.

Andy Beshear

The Governor of Kentucky, who called Pennington a "hero who sacrificed everything serving our country" in a social media statement.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I've communicated with the father, Tim Pennington. I've known him for over 30 years. They are heartbroken.”

— Keith Taul, Hardin County Judge Executive (statenews.net)

“Just trying to find ways to help honor him. He's obviously given the ultimate price. And he's – he's a hero in our eyes.”

— Keith Taul, Hardin County Judge Executive (statenews.net)

“He's a hero who sacrificed everything serving our country.”

— Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky (statenews.net)

What’s next

The military will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the Iranian attack that led to Sgt. Pennington's death, and the community of Glendale will hold a memorial service to honor his sacrifice.

The takeaway

Sgt. Pennington's tragic death is a sobering reminder of the human toll of the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, and the devastating impact it can have on close-knit communities. His service and sacrifice will be remembered by all those whose lives he touched.