Family describes soldier killed in Iran as ‘the life of the party’

1 hour ago

WBBJ Staff,

ORLANDO, Fla. (KCCI/WESH) – Captain Cody Khork was killed Sunday when a drone struck a port in Kuwait.

The 35-year-old was one of six service members who lost their lives in the attack.

Sgt. 1st Class Brian Kochendorfer served under Khork for about a year in 2020.

“A tactician, solid leader, get the mission done, but however on the back end of that, he cared about people. ‘Hey, I’m not going to put soldiers in harm’s way.’ That’s what you look for in a commander,” Kochendorfer said.

Khork was assigned to 103rd Sustainment Command out of Des Moines, Iowa.

He enlisted in the National Guard in 2009 and was commissioned as a military police officer in 2014. He deployed to Saudi Arabia, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and Poland.

“Solid moral compass is the best way I can put it. Does his job and did his job well,” Kochendorfer said.

Kochendorfer said his sympathies go to Khork’s friends and family, those who knew him well.

Kochendorfer said Khork embodied the best of service.

“I’m still trying to wrap my brain around it. God, I’m going to start tearing up … It hits home because you know the individual and you got to serve with him,” he said.

In a statement Tuesday, Khork’s family described him as “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.”