RED OAK, Iowa – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a combat veteran who served in the Iowa National Guard and the Global War on Terrorism, released the following statement about the six casualties from Des Moines’ 103rd Sustainment Command who were serving in Kuwait, including Sgt. Declan J. Coady of West Des Moines and Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien of Indianola.
“I’m mourning alongside our entire nation after the loss of the six heroes from Des Moines’ 103rd Sustainment Command who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Their courageous decision to answer the call to serve and put our nation before themselves is one that will never be forgotten.
“These soldiers engaged in the most noble mission: protecting their fellow Americans and keeping our homeland secure. Our nation owes them an incredible debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.
“My heart is breaking for their family members, loved ones, and our 103rd Sustainment Command family. Nowhere is their sacrifice felt more deeply than in Iowa, where we are especially grieving the loss of Sgt. Declan J. Coady from West Des Moines and Maj. Jeffrey R. O'Brien from Indianola.
“Please join me in praying for the safety and protection of all those serving in the Middle East and around the world. As they continue courageously carrying out their mission so we never lose another American to Iran-backed terror, they are ensuring the sacrifice made by their brothers and sister in uniform was not and will never be in vain.”
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