GoFundMe Raises Over $94K for US Soldier Killed in Iran War

Supporters rally behind family of fallen Army Reserve Sgt. Declan Coady after his death in Kuwait

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $94,000 from more than 1,500 donors to support the family of U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. Declan Coady, a 20-year-old Drake University student from Des Moines, Iowa who was killed in a drone attack in Kuwait while supporting Operation Epic Fury against Iran.

Why it matters

The outpouring of support for Sgt. Coady's family highlights the deep respect and gratitude Americans have for their fallen soldiers, even in the midst of an ongoing conflict. The fundraiser also underscores the significant financial burdens military families often face after the loss of a loved one in service.

The details

The GoFundMe campaign was set up by Marianne Crandall shortly after Coady was identified as one of six U.S. Army Reserve soldiers killed in the drone attack at the Port of Shuaiba in Kuwait. Coady, who enlisted in 2023 as an Army IT specialist, was posthumously promoted from specialist to sergeant. Drake University, where Coady was a student studying information systems, cybersecurity and computer science, described him as "well-loved and highly dedicated."

  • Coady was killed on Sunday in the drone attack in Kuwait.
  • The GoFundMe campaign was set up shortly after Coady was identified on Tuesday.
  • As of Thursday morning, the campaign had raised over $94,000 from more than 1,500 donors.

The players

Declan Coady

A 20-year-old U.S. Army Reserve Sgt. and Drake University student from Des Moines, Iowa who was killed in a drone attack in Kuwait.

Andrew Coady

Declan Coady's father, who is listed as the beneficiary of the GoFundMe campaign.

Marianne Crandall

The individual who set up the GoFundMe campaign to support Declan Coady's family after his death.

Drake University

The university where Declan Coady was a student, studying information systems, cybersecurity and computer science.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Marianne Crandall, GoFundMe Campaign Organizer (GoFundMe)

“Thank You for your bravery, service and sacrifice. God bless and comfort his family.”

— Brandi Vinson (GoFundMe)

“My heart truly goes out to Declan's family and everyone who loved him. No family should ever have to experience a loss like this. You are in my thoughts, and Declan will not be forgotten.”

— Travis Terrell (GoFundMe)

What’s next

The GoFundMe campaign organizers say the funds raised will assist with Declan Coady's funeral and memorial expenses, travel costs, and other unexpected costs for his family.

The takeaway

This outpouring of support for Sgt. Coady's family demonstrates the deep respect and gratitude Americans have for their fallen soldiers, even in the midst of an ongoing conflict. It also highlights the significant financial burdens military families often face after the loss of a loved one in service, and the importance of community-driven efforts to provide assistance during these difficult times.