(The Center Square) – One of the six U.S. service members killed in the Iran conflict was a man from Central Florida, the Department of War confirmed.
Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Lakeland was among four U.S. Army Reserve soldiers who were supporting Operation Epic Fury. He died in an unmanned aircraft system attack on March 1 in Kuwait at the Port of Shuaiba, according to the United States Army Reserve Command.
In the aftermath, a family friend set up a GoFundMe account on behalf of the Khork family.
“We have had so many people reach out asking to support Captain Cody Khork’s family during this unimaginable time,” wrote Hope Kay who created the GoFundMe page. “His mother, Donna, would have never set this up herself, but I was able to convince her to allow the community to help. All money raised will go directly to Donna and his family for travel expenses above what the military is covering to receive Cody’s body, as well as travel expenses for out-of-state family to travel here to be with the immediate family.”
The page raised over $26,000 in the span of two days.
Khork enlisted in the National Guard in 2009 and was commissioned as a Military Police Officer in the Army Reserve in 2014. He served in deployments to Saudi Arabia, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and Poland, according to the USARC.
He is the recipient of at least 15 awards and decorations including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, and the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.
“I am heartbroken to learn of the loss of Army Captain Cody Khork from Polk County, who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation during Operation Epic Fury,” said Rep. Laurel Lee, R-Fla. “Please join me in praying for the Khork family and the loved ones of the brave servicemembers we lost. Their courage and service to our country will never be forgotten.”
Gov. Ron DeSantis also spoke up about the loss of Khork, posting on social media, “First Lady Casey DeSantis and I are saddened to learn that Army Captain Cody Khork, from Polk County, has been killed in the line of duty as part of Operation Epic Fury. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and his fellow soldiers.”
The USARC said the attack that left Khork and three other U.S. Army Reserve soldiers dead is under investigation.
“It is with deep sadness and unyielding grief that we acknowledge and recognize our Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” said Brig. Gen. Clint A. Barnes, Deputy Commanding General, 1st Theater Sustainment Command, Operational Command Post. “Our soldiers relentlessly, consistently, and fearlessly served with sincere dedication and pride. They were the ultimate ambassadors for freedom. They represent the best of what our country stands for. May God grant their families peace and comfort in their memories. We will never forget them.”
