A Kentucky native was identified Monday as the latest United States solider killed in action during Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East.
The Department of War announced the death of Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, of Glendale, Kentucky. He died Sunday from injuries sustained in a March 1 attack on the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
Sergeant Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson in Colorado. He is the seventh U.S. soldier killed in action since the conflict in Iran began.
He was assigned to the 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado on June 10, 2025, the Department of War said. He enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017.
“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.”
Gov. Andy Beshear shared the following message on social media:
