Fort Carson Soldier, assigned to 1st Space Battalion, killed in Operation Epic Fury
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) - A soldier stationed at Fort Carson has been identified by the Department of War (DoW) as the seventh American servicemember killed during Operation Epic Fury.
According to a release from the DoW, Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, died on March 8 from injuries he sustained a week before, during an Iranian attack at the Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia on March 1.
Pennington was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion within the 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, United States Army, and Missile Defense Command (USAMDC) on June 10, 2025.
"The U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command is deeply saddened by the loss of Sgt. Pennington,” Lt. Gen. Sean A. Gainey, USASMDC commanding general, said. “He gave the ultimate sacrifice for the country he loved. That makes him nothing less than a hero, and he will always be remembered that way. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends."
Prior to that, Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017.
The ABC Affiliate WHAS in Kentucky spoke with Pennington's high school teacher, Tom Pitt, in Glendale. Pitt said Pennington had always been an American hero. He described Pennington as the quintessential all-American and added that Pennington was a people person who loved to help others.
"It knocks the wind out of you, and you question reality for just a minute. Am I dreaming? Is this real? It was real, and it's heartbreaking," said Pennington's teacher, Tom Pitt.
Heartbreaking was a sentiment echoed by Pennington's pastor in Glendale.
"There's no words to describe how a mom and dad feel and the loss of their son," said Pastor Michael Bell.
Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (3), Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Korea Defense Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon.
Pennington was promotable and will be posthumously promoted to staff sergeant, according to the Army.
According to the Army, the 1st Space Battalion plans, integrates, synchronizes and executes space control planning and space control in support of the Army, combined and joint forces. This specific battalion generates and provides space combat power for the Army and joint forces to conduct multidomain planning and operations, according to military officials.
The Army says the battalion supports the nation’s strategic land power to fight in, from and through space. It's unclear what work the 1st Space Battalion is doing in Operation Epic Fury.
“Sgt. Pennington was a dedicated and experienced noncommissioned officer who led with strength, professionalism and sense of duty,” Col. Michael F. Dyer, 1st Space Brigade commander, said. “Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and fellow Soldiers. We remain dedicated to providing comfort and support at this time and will forever honor his legacy and ultimate sacrifice for our nation.”
The Army says the battalion provides teams of expert Soldiers, trained as space professionals who understand how to plan, fight and win. The capabilities provided by the 1st Space Battalion play a critical role in the Army’s strategy to conduct combined arms warfare across all domains, according to the military.
Part of the battalion's military readiness includes operational requirements with trained and ready space forces capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare and leading multidomain warfighting efforts across all levels of war, according to the Army.
It consists of a Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Space Company with seven space control planning teams, 4th and 18th Space Companies with space control platoons, and the 24th Missile Defense Service Battery, according to the military.
On Monday, Governor Polis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington. He also ordered flags to be flown at half-staff on the day of Sergeant Pennington’s memorial, which has not yet been announced.
“Our hearts are with the family and friends of Sergeant Pennington. The brave members of our military and armed services who put on the uniform in service to our state and country are our neighbors, friends, and community members. Colorado honors Sergeant Pennington’s service and bravery,” said Governor Polis.
Mayor Yemi Mobolade also issued the following statement following the loss of Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington.
“Our Colorado Springs community grieves deeply alongside the family and loved ones of Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, who was stationed at Fort Carson. Sgt. Pennington’s life was marked by courage, service, and a willingness to stand in the gap for others. Like so many who wear the uniform of our nation, he answered the call to serve with quiet strength and sacrifice. For that, we are profoundly grateful.”
Mayor Mobolade continued on to share a more personal note.
“In moments like this, we are reminded that behind every uniform is a bellowed son, brother, friend, and teammate. Today, our hearts are with his family, his fellow soldiers, and the entire military community as they carry this heavy loss. Abbey and I are lifting them up in prayer and asking our entire community to do the same. May they feel the embrace of a grateful city and the comfort that comes from knowing Sgt. Pennington’s life and service will not be forgotten. May we honor his memory not only with our words, but by continuing to stand with and support the brave men and women who serve and protect our nation, and the families who serve alongside them every day.”
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