Des Moines, Iowa — Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to fly at half-staff, due to the loss of two members of the military from Iowa.
The half-staff directive is effective immediately until sunset on the final day of interment in honor and remembrance of 45-year-old Major Jeffery O’Brien of Waukee and 20-year-old Sgt. Declan Coady of West Des Moines. Both are Army Reserve Soldiers with the 103rd Sustainment Command in Des Moines, and were killed in action on March 1st, 2026, in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait.
The Governor says our hearts are broken by the deaths of O’Brien and Coady, two brave Iowa soldiers who gave the ultimate sacrifice to secure freedom and peace. She says that on behalf of a grateful state, “Kevin and I offer our prayers and condolences for their families, and we ask all Iowans to stand united in support of our fallen soldiers and those who loved them.”
Flags will be flown at half-staff on the State Capitol Building and on flag displays in the Capitol Complex. Flags will also be at half-staff on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state.
Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
KIWA Staff Photo
