7th soldier killed in Operation Epic Fury identified as Space Brigade Sergeant

WASHINGTON (TNND) — The Department of War has identified the seventh soldier killed while supporting Operation Epic Fury.

26-year-old Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington from Glendale, Kentucky, died on Sunday from injuries he sustained during an enemy attack on March 1 at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lieutenant General Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”

Pennington was assigned to 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade with the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command in Fort Carson, Colorado in June 2025. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist in 2017.

Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”

Pennington will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

The other six Army Reserve soldiers were killed by a drone strike at a command center in Kuwait, the day after the U.S. and Israel started their military campaign against Iran, and returned home on Saturday.

President Donald Trump joined the grieving families at Dover Air Force Base to honor the soldiers during a dignified transfer.

Trump, who described the soldiers as heroes during an event, vowed to keep U.S. war deaths “to a minimum.”

The DoW is currently investigating the incident.