Minnesota Soldier Killed in Kuwait Remembered for Bringing Light

Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor, 39, was killed in a drone strike while serving in Kuwait.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Marie Amor, a 39-year-old soldier from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, was killed in a drone strike in Kuwait on March 1, 2026. Amor had served in the military for nearly 20 years and was just days away from returning home to her husband and two children when she was killed. She was remembered as a loving, sarcastic, and generous person who helped others during difficult times.

Why it matters

Amor's death highlights the ongoing risks and sacrifices made by U.S. service members stationed abroad, even in regions not traditionally considered active combat zones. Her loss is deeply felt by her local community in White Bear Lake, which is rallying to support her family and honor her memory.

The details

Amor was one of six U.S. Army Reserve soldiers killed in the drone strike at a command center in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. She and the other soldiers worked in logistics, keeping troops supplied with food and equipment. A week before the attack, Amor's unit had been moved to a less-protected shipping container-style building due to fears the base they were on could be targeted.

  • Amor was killed on March 1, 2026.
  • She was just a few days away from returning home to her family when she was killed.

The players

Nicole M. Amor

A 39-year-old Sgt. 1st Class in the U.S. Army Reserve, assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command. She was killed in a drone strike in Kuwait.

Joey Amor

Nicole Amor's husband, who shared memories and tributes to his wife after her death.

Derek Hoff

Nicole Amor's brother, who spoke about her dedication to the military and her family.

Mary Nicklawske

The mayor of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, who ordered flags in the city to be flown at half-staff to honor Nicole Amor.

Elliott Engen

A Minnesota state representative who said Nicole Amor's death "hit really close to home" for the White Bear Lake community.

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What they’re saying

“She loved with all her heart. She always knew exactly when to throw that perfectly timed sarcastic remark your way. That was her: strong, loving and real.”

— Joey Amor, Nicole Amor's husband (Instagram)

“Nicole was an amazing soldier, but more than that she was an amazing wife, mother, and friend. The world is dimmer without her light in it, but her love and the impact she made will live on in all of us.”

— Joey Amor, Nicole Amor's husband (Instagram)

“She was a rare and special light in this world, and she will be missed more than words can ever explain.”

— Joey Amor, Nicole Amor's husband (Instagram)

“Nicole had a way of being everyone's mother and best friend at the same time.”

— Joey Amor, Nicole Amor's husband (Instagram)

“She was loved so greatly by so many people, and she loved each and every one of you right back.”

— Joey Amor, Nicole Amor's husband (Instagram)

What’s next

The White Bear Lake community is rallying to support the Amor family and honor Nicole's memory, including plans to raise funds to build a greenhouse at the family's home as a living tribute to her love of gardening.

The takeaway

Nicole Amor's death is a tragic loss for her family and the White Bear Lake community, but her legacy as a loving, generous, and selfless person who brought light to others during difficult times will continue to inspire those who knew her.