Iowa Governor Orders Flags Flown at Half-Staff for Fallen Soldiers

Two Iowa Army Reserve Soldiers killed in Kuwait honored with state-wide tribute.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to fly at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on the final day of interment in honor and remembrance of Major Jeffery O'Brien, 45, of Waukee, Iowa and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of West Des Moines, Iowa. Both were Army Reserve Soldiers with the 103rd Sustainment Command in Des Moines, Iowa, and were killed in action on March 1, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait.

Why it matters

The deaths of these two Iowa soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving their country is a solemn occasion that calls for the state to come together in remembrance and support for their families and communities.

The details

Governor Reynolds has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on the State Capitol Building, on flag displays in the Capitol Complex, and on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are also encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff as a sign of respect.

  • Flags will be flown at half-staff effective immediately until sunset on the final day of interment.

The players

Governor Kim Reynolds

The Governor of Iowa who has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor the fallen soldiers.

Major Jeffery O'Brien

A 45-year-old Army Reserve Soldier from Waukee, Iowa who was killed in action in Kuwait.

Sgt. Declan Coady

A 20-year-old Army Reserve Soldier from West Des Moines, Iowa who was killed in action in Kuwait.

103rd Sustainment Command

The Army Reserve unit based in Des Moines, Iowa that the two fallen soldiers were a part of.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts are broken by the deaths of Major Jeffrey O'Brien and Sgt. Declan Coady, two brave Iowa soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to secure freedom and peace.”

— Governor Kim Reynolds (westerniowatoday.com)

“On behalf of a grateful state, Kevin and I offer our prayers and condolences for their families, and we ask all Iowans to stand united in support of our fallen soldiers and those who loved them.”

— Governor Kim Reynolds (westerniowatoday.com)

What’s next

Flags will remain at half-staff until sunset on the final day of interment for the two fallen soldiers.

The takeaway

The tragic deaths of these two Iowa Army Reserve Soldiers highlight the sacrifices made by members of the military to protect our freedoms. Governor Reynolds' order to fly flags at half-staff is a solemn tribute that brings the state together to honor their service and memory.