Second Iowa soldier killed in Iranian attack identified

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The U.S. Defense Department has identified Major Jeffrey O'Brien, a 45-year-old from Waukee, Iowa, as one of the six Army Reserve soldiers killed in an Iranian strike on a tactical operations center in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba on March 1. O'Brien previously worked at a company in Coralville, Iowa and was nominated by his employer for their support of his Army Reserve service.

Why it matters

This attack on U.S. military personnel in Kuwait represents an escalation of tensions between the U.S. and Iran, and the loss of life is a tragic outcome. The identification of two Iowans among the casualties hits close to home for the state's residents.

The details

According to the U.S. Defense Department, Major Jeffrey O'Brien was one of six Army Reserve soldiers killed in the Iranian strike on a facility in Kuwait's Port of Shuaiba on March 1. O'Brien, a 45-year-old from Waukee, Iowa, was previously employed at ProCircular, a company located in Coralville, Iowa, and was nominated by his employer for their support of his Army Reserve service.

• The attack occurred on March 1, 2026.
• The U.S. Defense Department identified Major Jeffrey O'Brien as one of the casualties on March 5, 2026.

What’s next

The U.S. military and government are expected to investigate the details of the attack and respond accordingly.