The family of an Iowa soldier killed in an Iranian airstrike have released statements to share more about him with Iowans.
Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien, 45, of Waukee, was named by the Department of Defense as the fifth Army Reserve soldier who was killed during the airstrike in Port Shuaiba, Kuwait on March 1.
O’Brien commissioned in the Army Reserve as a signal corps officer in 2012. He previously deployed to Kuwait in 2019.
O’Brien’s awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Superior Unit Award, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device.
O’Brien’s parents and brothers released a statement on Friday. You can read the full statement below.
Written statement from the parents & brothers of Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien
It is with a heavy heart that we write this, but as we come to grips with the loss of Jeff within our family, we would like to take the opportunity to discuss his journey.
Jeff was a son, grandson, the oldest of 3 brothers, a nephew and compassionate young man raised on a farm near Monti, IA. It was instilled in him to recognize that when people need help or a job needs done, you do it because it is the right thing to do. Growing up, whether it was waking up early to help his Grandfather to tend livestock, baling straw on the family farm, or raising flags for his local parish on Memorial Day and July 4th, Jeff would always put others ahead of himself.
Jeff embraced small town Iowa, listening to rock music of the 80’s and 90’s, spending time with classmates, and was a dedicated Cubs fan every year; even the bad years!
Jeff had a life long interest in computer science, which led him to getting his degree at Iowa State University. It was during this time he fell in love with Central Iowa as well as his wife Roxane. We are proud of Jeff, his accomplishments professionally and in the service, as well as for being a loving family man.
We appreciate those whom have already reached out in remembrance and do ask that you keep Jeff and his immediate family in your future prayers as he returns home. God Bless.
“I’ll tell you what bravery really is. Bravery is just the determination to do a job that you know has to be done” – Audie Murphy
His family also released a statement on Thursday. You can read the previous statement below.
Written statement from the family of Maj. Jeffrey O’Brien
The past few days have been absolutely devastating, confusing, and surreal for our family. We are in shock, grieving, and grappling with the reality that we have lost the most important man in our lives, and we are trying to come to terms with how we move forward.
Jeff was a true hero in every sense of the word. He was not only a role model to our kids, but also a goofy and silly dad, always looking for ways to make the kids laugh. He was an exceptional and caring husband, even finding ways to take care of us while serving 7,000 miles away. Jeff was also an incredible friend, a dedicated employee, and a man of deep faith. Every one of these relationships mattered profoundly to him, and he will be missed by so many.
We are beyond grateful for the outpouring of love surrounding us during this unimaginable time. We know Jeff would be deeply moved by the number of people uplifting our family.
Jeff was incredibly proud to serve our country, and we are committed to honoring his life and legacy.
