Nebraska soldier killed in drone strike in Kuwait
One of the first soldiers to die in the new war with Iran was from Nebraska.
WASHINGTON - One of the first soldiers to die in the new war with Iran was from Nebraska.
The Department of War announced on Tuesday the death of four Army Reserve soldiers. Sgt. 1st Class Noah L. Tietjens of Bellevue was among those who died on Sunday in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. The statement says the soldiers died during an unmanned aircraft system attack. All of them were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command out of Des Moines, Iowa. The department says the incident is under investigation.
War has engulfed the Middle East after Israel and the U.S. launched strikes on Iran over the weekend. The Pentagon says six American troops have died so far.
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen says he plans to order that flags be flown at half staff to honor Tietjens.
“Suzanne and I are deeply saddened to learn of Sgt. Tietjens death,” said Gov. Pillen. “We are holding the Tietjens family close in our hearts during this unbelievably difficult time and will keep them in our prayers.
Noah stepped up to serve and defend the American people from foreign enemies around the world – a sacrifice we must never forget. Please join us in praying for the Tietjens and for all members of the United States military who stand in harm’s way to protect our freedom.”
The other identified soldiers who died in the attack are Capt. Cody Khork, 35, of Winter Haven, Florida; Sgt. 1st Class Nicole Amor, 39, of White Bear Lake, Minnesota and Sgt. Declan Coady, 20, of Des Moines, Iowa.
According to the U.S. Army Reserve, Tietjens enlisted in the Army Reserve in 2006 as a Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic. He had two deployments to Kuwait in 2009 and 2019. Tietjens earned at least 10 awards and decorations for his service including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Army Achievement Medal.
Nebraska's Congressional delegation has started issuing statements on the news.
Sen. Deb Fischer: “It is with profound sadness that I learned one of Nebraska’s own was killed in Kuwait during Operation Epic Fury. Bruce and I extend our deepest condolences to Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens’ family as they navigate this unimaginable grief. His courage and sacrifice in service to our nation will be forever honored.”
Rep. Adrian Smith: “I am heartbroken to learn of the death of Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens, who was killed in the line of duty over the weekend. This is a devastating loss for his family, friends, fellow service members, and for our entire state.
“Sergeant First Class Noah Tietjens answered the call to serve with courage and selflessness. He gave his life in defense of the freedoms we cherish, and we will forever be grateful for his service.
“Please join me in keeping his loves ones in your prayers. May they feel the strength, support, and gratitude of a community that mourns with them and honors his service.”
Sen. Pete Ricketts: "Susanne and I mourn the death of Nebraska hero Noah Tietjens. Noah died in Kuwait this weekend during Operation Epic Fury. My heart and prayers are with the Tietjens family as they mourn the loss of their heroic son. May we always remember and honor the sacrifices made by Noah Tietjens and the Tietjens family.”
Rep. Mike Flood: “The news of Sergeant Noah Tietjens’ death is heartbreaking. It is a sobering reminder that our troops are putting their lives on the line as America tries to stop Iran from becoming a nuclear power. Our prayers are with the Tiejtens family as we all grieve Sergeant Tiejens' loss and honor his service to our country.”