They were only 26 and 20 years old. Two young American soldiers whose lives were only just beginning, yet who gave everything in service to their country.
Declan Coady was just twenty years old, from West Des Moines, Iowa. He served in the Army Reserve with the 103rd Sustainment Command, helping ensure troops had the supplies they needed — food, fuel, water, and critical equipment. Outside the uniform, Declan was a college sophomore studying Information Technology at Drake University, working toward a future that had barely begun.
Those who knew him remember his kindness and heart for helping others. Long before the Army, he was an Eagle Scout who chose to dedicate his Eagle Scout project to helping homeless youth in Iowa. Just before his passing, Declan had been recommended for promotion to sergeant — a promotion that was later awarded to him posthumously.
Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, also gave his life while serving his country. A soldier from Kentucky, he answered the call to serve and stood alongside his fellow Americans with courage and dedication.
Two young lives. Two families forever changed. Two futures that should have been filled with decades of memories still waiting to happen.
Tonight we honor their sacrifice — and remember the lives they never got the chance to live.
May God bless their souls and bring comfort to the families they left behind.
