03/06/2026
35-year-old Capt. Cody A. Khork died in the line of duty after an Iranian strike hit a U.S. facility in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait on March 1, 2026. He enlisted in the National Guard in 2009 and commissioned as a Military Police officer in the Army Reserve in 2014. Captain Khork deployed to Saudi Arabia in 2018, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in 2021, and Poland in 2024. Capt. Khork served with the 103rd Sustainment Command, a unit responsible for providing food, fuel, water, ammunition, transportation equipment, and supplies. Five other U.S. service members also lost their lives in the strike in Kuwait.
Capt. Khork grew up in Winter Haven, Florida, and graduated from Lake Region High School before continuing his education at Florida Southern College, where he graduated in 2014. Morgan Evins, who served with Khork in the Army Reserve and deployed with him to Saudi Arabia, said they built a close bond over more than a decade. She said, "He was such a down-to-earth person, such a funny guy, always knew how to lighten the mood and just befriend everybody. Everyone was just magnetized toward this guy because he was such a good person."
In a statement, his family said, "Cody was truly the life of the party, known for his infectious spirit, generous heart, and deep care for those who served alongside him and for everyone blessed to know him." A confirmed GoFundMe page was created by Hope Kay, a member of the Winter Haven community to support Capt. Khork's mother, Donna Burhans, and his family during this very difficult time. Capt. Khork loved his family, his friends, and he loved his country. We thank you for everything you did. You gave the ultimate sacrifice. Rest easy, Captain Khork.
(Photo: The Khork family / U.S. Army Reserve | GoFundMe)