The seventh U.S. soldier killed in the conflict with Iran was a highly decorated member of the Army’s famed 1st Space Brigade, which plays a vital role in air defense systems, officials reported Monday.
Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, Glendale; kentuckyHe died on Sunday from injuries sustained in an Iranian retaliatory attack on Prince Sultan Air Base a week ago, where he was deployed in Saudi Arabia.
“Sergeant Pennington is a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer with strong leadership, professionalism and strong sense of responsibility,” Col. Michael Dyer, commander of the 1st Space Brigade, said in a statement, according to the New York Post.
Dyer added: “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow soldiers. We remain committed to providing comfort and support at this time and will always honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our country.”
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Kentucky governor pays tribute
at the same time, kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear expressed condolences for the death of the state native, who joined the Army in 2017 as a 92Y Troop Supply Specialist.
The governor called Pennington a “hero” who gave his all while serving his country.
Who is Sgt. Benjamin Pennington?
Pennington assigned to No. 1 space camp1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, Colorado.
Army Space Brigades are deployed in six countries around the world and enhance the military’s capabilities in missile warning, GPS tracking and long-range satellite communications.
Pennington received several honors during his service, including three Army Commendation Medals and a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, DVIDS reported.
Soldiers who died in action were posthumously awarded the rank of sergeant.
Following its epic Fury campaign on February 28, Iran began a wide range of retaliatory strikes across the Middle East, specifically targeting U.S. facilities in the region.
On March 1, Prince Sultan Air Base was one of the facilities attacked. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have launched missiles and drones at the base.
U.S. authorities said the incident remains under investigation.
Pennington is the seventh American casualty in the ongoing conflict with Iran, which is now entering its second week. Six more killed during Iranian attack on U.S. facilities Kuwait.
