The youngest American soldier killed in an Iranian drone strike was Sgt. Declan Coady, an Eagle Scout from Des Moines, Iowa. Coady, 20, was one of six Army members who lost their lives on March 1 during a retaliatory attack on the Port of Shuaiba in Kuwait by Iran, in response to Operation Epic Fury.
Before enlisting in the Army in 2023, Coady had a history of community service, exemplified by achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in June 2020. Only about 4% of scouts attain this prestigious title, according to his former scout master, Paul O’Connell. For his Eagle Project, Coady led a team in constructing 12 Adirondack chairs to donate to the Iowa Homeless Youth Centers (IHYC), showcasing his dedication to helping those in need.
Austin Neal, community engagement coordinator for IHYC, highlighted the impact of Coady’s project, mentioning that some chairs were given to underprivileged individuals transitioning to permanent housing. Even after completing his project, Coady and his brother returned to the center to build storage shelves in its basement, leaving a lasting impression on the community.
Jacob Brown, a fellow member of Troop 242 who assisted Coady with his Eagle Project, described him as a natural leader known for his kindness and willingness to help others. Brown and Coady attended West Des Moines Valley High School together, where Coady graduated with honors for completing over 100 hours of community service.
The National Eagle Scout Association paid tribute to Coady’s contributions as both a scout and a soldier, acknowledging his positive impact on the community. A GoFundMe campaign set up for Coady’s family has raised over $116,000, reflecting the outpouring of support for the fallen soldier.
Coady’s military decorations included an Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon. Trained as an IT specialist, he was posthumously promoted to sergeant. His sister, Keira, expressed her grief over his untimely death, emphasizing the profound loss felt by the family and those who knew him.
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