WASHINGTON (KOAA) — The Department of War announced the death of a Fort Carson soldier who was supporting Operation Epic Fury.
The identity of 26-year-old Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington was released on Monday. He died on March 8 from injuries sustained during an operation on March 1 in Saudi Arabia.
He was assigned to 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, Fort Carson, Colo. The incident is under investigation.
"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."
- Learn more about Sgt. Pennington in the video player below.
Pennington, a resident of Glendale, Kentucky, enlisted in the U.S. Army as a 92Y, unit supply specialist, in 2017. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, USASMDC, on June 10, 2025.
“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.”
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 Department of War.
In a statement to News5, Congressman Jeff Crank had the following to say on the announcement of Sgt. Peddington's death:
I join the nation in mourning the loss of Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington, assigned to 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade, at Fort Carson, CO. Sergeant Pennington was deployed in support of Operation Epic Fury and succumbed to his injuries sustained during an enemy attack in Saudia Arabia,” said Rep. Crank. “Sergeant Pennington answered the call to serve and defend our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, and I am praying for them during this difficult time. This is a grave and sobering reminder of the dangers our men and women in uniform face in the Middle East and across the globe to defend our nation and freedom. Sergeant Pennington’s courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten, and may God bless our troops as they continue their mission.
News5 has reached out to Fort Carson for more information on Pennington.
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