Gov. Ron DeSantis and several Florida officials mourned the loss of Winter Haven-born U.S. Army Reserve Captain Cody A. Khork after he was killed in a drone strike at a U.S. Army command center in Kuwait on March 1.
"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," DeSantis wrote on social media.
Khork was killed alongside 5 other servicemembers as part of "Operation Epic Fury" against the Iranian regime. Four of the victims, including Khork, have been identified.
- Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjans of Bellevue, Nebraska
- Sgt. 1st Class Nicole M. Amor of White Bear Lake, Minnesota
- Sgt. Declan J. Coady of West Des Moines, Iowa
Lt. Gov. Jay Collins also mourned the loss of Khork.
"We are heartbroken to learn that Army Captain Cody Khork of Polk County was killed in the line of duty while serving our nation during Operation Epic Fury. Layla and I join Floridians across our state in mourning this profound loss and in praying for strength and comfort for his family, loved ones, and fellow soldiers," Collins wrote. "May we never forget the courage of those who stand in harm’s way to defend our freedoms."
Rep. Jennifer Canady (R-Lakeland) added, "May God bless and comfort the family of American hero Capt. Cody A. Khork of Lakeland, who was killed in a drone attack in Kuwait on Sunday. Our hearts are with his loved ones and the entire Polk County community. We will never have enough words to express our gratitude for the extraordinary courage of the men and women who serve and protect our nation."
Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingolia also thanked Khork for his service.
"Rest In Peace Capt. Cody Khork. Thank you for your service. We are praying for you and your family," Ingoglia wrote.
In addition, the Florida GOP thanked Khork for his service.
"The Florida GOP mourns the loss of Army Captain Cody A. Khork, resident of Polk County, killed in the line of duty during Operation Epic Fury in Kuwait," the Florida GOP wrote. "We extend our deepest condolences to his family. We are grateful for his service to our country."
