A highly decorated soldier from Kentucky, Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, has been identified as the seventh American to lose his life in the conflict with Iran.
Pennington, 26, from Glendale, Kentucky, died on Sunday due to injuries he sustained a week prior during Iran's retaliatory strike at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
As a member of the Army's prestigious 1st Space Brigade, Pennington played a vital role in air defense systems.
Commander Col. Michael Dyer praised Pennington as a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism, and a sense of duty.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his condolences, dubbing Pennington a 'hero' who gave everything while serving the country.
Pennington received several accolades during his years of service, including three Army Commendation Medals and a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
He was posthumously elevated to the rank of staff sergeant and marks the seventh American casualty in the ongoing conflict with Iran.
