On March 1, 2026, Captain Cody A. Khork, a 35-year-old U.S. Army Reserve officer, tragically lost his life in the line of duty after an Iranian strike hit a U.S. facility in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. The strike not only claimed Capt. Khork’s life but also took the lives of five other U.S. service members stationed in the region. The devastating loss of these brave men sent shockwaves through their families, their communities, and the military, leaving a void that can never be filled.
Capt. Khork’s death is a painful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces. He was part of the 103rd Sustainment Command, a unit whose primary responsibility was to ensure that troops were well-equipped and supported, providing essential supplies such as food, fuel, water, ammunition, and transportation equipment. His role in this critical mission was one of service and dedication, ensuring that the logistical backbone of the military operated smoothly during deployments. Capt. Khork’s commitment to his duties reflected the values that he held dear—service, sacrifice, and a deep care for the well-being of those around him.
Cody Khork’s journey into the military began in 2009 when he enlisted in the National Guard. He had always felt a deep calling to serve his country, but it was in 2014 that he took his commitment to the next level, commissioning as a Military Police officer in the Army Reserve. He didn’t stop there. He went on to serve in multiple deployments, each one reinforcing his sense of duty and mission. His first deployment took him to Saudi Arabia in 2018, where he was part of a larger effort to support U.S. forces in the region. In 2021, he deployed to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and by 2024, he was in Poland, continuing his service and contributing to the U.S. military’s efforts in diverse and challenging environments.
Throughout his military career, Capt. Khork was known for his warm and charismatic personality. Those who served with him remember him not just as a fellow soldier but as a friend, a confidant, and someone who made everyone feel welcome. Morgan Evins, a fellow Army Reservist who served alongside Capt. Khork during their deployment to Saudi Arabia, shared a touching tribute to him. “He was such a down-to-earth person, such a funny guy, always knew how to lighten the mood and just befriend everybody,” Evins said. “Everyone was just magnetized toward this guy because he was such a good person.”
This sentiment was echoed by many who knew Capt. Khork. He had an uncanny ability to make those around him feel at ease, to bring laughter into difficult situations, and to forge lasting bonds with those he worked with. His infectious spirit and sense of humor were part of what made him so beloved among his fellow service members. Capt. Khork’s leadership extended beyond his professional duties; it was about how he treated people, how he made them feel valued, and how he ensured that no one ever felt alone in their journey. His family, friends, and military colleagues will forever remember him not only as a brave officer but as a compassionate human being who made a difference in the lives of everyone he encountered.
Capt. Khork’s upbringing in Winter Haven, Florida, played a significant role in shaping the man he became. Growing up in this tight-knit community, he developed a deep sense of loyalty, commitment, and an innate desire to help others. After graduating from Lake Region High School, he went on to attend Florida Southern College, where he graduated in 2014. His education and experiences helped him shape his understanding of leadership and service, qualities that would define his military career.
Beyond his military service, Capt. Khork’s love for his family was one of the driving forces in his life. In a statement released by his family, they described him as “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.” His family’s words were a testament to the kind of person he was—a person who didn’t just serve his country with dedication but also served his community, his loved ones, and his friends with love, kindness, and unwavering support.
Though Capt. Khork was taken too soon, his impact will forever be felt by those who knew him. His devotion to his family, his friends, and his country was unparalleled. He was a man who truly understood the meaning of sacrifice, and in his service, he gave everything for the greater good. In his family’s statement, they expressed their gratitude for the time they had with him, acknowledging that his life was a gift that would never be forgotten. “Cody loved his family, his friends, and he loved his country,” they said. “We thank you for everything you did. You gave the ultimate sacrifice. Rest easy, Captain Khork.”
In the wake of his death, the Winter Haven community, where Capt. Khork grew up, has come together to support his family. A GoFundMe page, created by Hope Kay, a member of the Winter Haven community, has been set up to provide financial assistance to Capt. Khork’s mother, Donna Burhans, and the rest of his family during this incredibly difficult time. The outpouring of support from friends, family, and strangers alike is a testament to the kind of person Capt. Khork was—someone who left an indelible mark on everyone he met, and whose loss has been felt by many.
As we remember Capt. Khork, it is important to honor not just his service but the life he lived. He was more than just a soldier. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and a leader who inspired those around him. His legacy is one of love, service, and sacrifice, and it will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps. Capt. Khork’s death is a stark reminder of the risks that service members face every day, but it also highlights the bravery and courage that comes with choosing to serve in the military. His life, though cut short, will continue to be a beacon of hope, a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who defend our freedom, and the love that binds us all together.
Rest in peace, Captain Cody A. Khork. You will never be forgotten. Your sacrifice will always be remembered, and your spirit will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing you.