Iowa Soldier Dies in Iran Conflict

Major Jeffrey O'Brien, 45, was among six Army Reserve soldiers killed in attack on Kuwaiti port.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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An Iowa soldier living in Waukee but listed as from Indianola by the U.S. Department of War was killed in the ongoing conflict in Iran. Major Jeffrey O'Brien, 45, of Waukee, is among the six Army Reserve soldiers killed when Iran struck Port Shuaiba in Kuwait on March 1st.

Why it matters

The deaths of Major Jeffrey O'Brien and Sergeant Declan Coady, two Iowa soldiers, have sparked grief and condolences from state leaders, highlighting the human toll of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The details

Major Jeffrey O'Brien, 45, was an Army Reserve soldier assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command in Des Moines. He was killed along with five other Army Reserve soldiers when Iran struck Port Shuaiba in Kuwait on March 1st.

  • Major O'Brien was killed on March 1, 2026 during the ongoing conflict in Iran.
  • The U.S. Department of War initially listed Major O'Brien as being from Indianola, Iowa.

The players

Major Jeffrey O'Brien

A 45-year-old Army Reserve soldier from Waukee, Iowa who was killed in the Iran conflict.

Governor Kim Reynolds

The Governor of Iowa who offered prayers and condolences for the families of the fallen soldiers.

Senator Chuck Grassley

The Republican Senator from Iowa who issued a statement following the announcement of Major O'Brien's death.

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What they’re saying

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

— Governor Kim Reynolds (kniakrls.com)

“It's devastating to learn a second Iowan has lost his life in combat. Maj. O'Brien's heroism will be remembered forever, along with his fellow fallen soldier and Iowan, Sgt. Declan Coady.”

— Senator Chuck Grassley (kniakrls.com)

The takeaway

The deaths of Major O'Brien and Sergeant Coady, two Iowa soldiers, serve as a tragic reminder of the human cost of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the sacrifices made by members of the U.S. military to protect freedom and peace.