'We’ve lost the most important man in our lives': Family mourns loss of Maj Jeffrey O’Brien
DES MOINES, IOWA: Army Reserve Major Jeffrey O'Brien’s family has called him 'the most important man in our lives' in a statement remembering him following his death in an Iranian airstrike. The Iowa soldier was one among six US service members who lost their lives in Kuwait on March 1.
The Department of Defense confirmed the death of the 45-year-old soldier from Waukee. He died alongside Captain Cody Khork, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M Marzan, Sgt Noah Tietjens, Sgt Nicole Amor, and Sgt Declan Coady during the airstrike in Port Shuaiba.
All fallen members were assigned to the 103rd Sustainment Command, Des Moines, Iowa.
Jeffrey O'Brien's family says they're in 'shock'
Now, O'Brien’s family has paid him tribute, as they noted how 'devastating, confusing, and surreal' the past few days have been for them. “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,” they stated.
In the statement, the late soldier’s family also shared that O'Brien “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.”
Jeffrey O'Brien was 'a man of deep faith'
The statement further called O’Brien “an exceptional and caring husband” as well as “an incredible friend, a dedicated employee, and a man of deep faith.”
The family also expressed their gratitude for the love they are receiving from outside during 'this unimaginable time'. “We know Jeff would be deeply moved by the number of people uplifting our family,” they said.
“Jeff was incredibly proud to serve our country, and we are committed to honoring his life and legacy. As we continue to grieve and process this heartbreaking loss, we kindly ask for privacy,” the statement added.
Jeffrey O'Brien’s colleague says he 'gave so much to the people around him'
Also, Brandon Potter, a colleague of O'Brien, has described him as 'a great guy'.
“He [O'Brien] had a way of looking out for people. His team loved him. He always took time out of his busy day to make sure they had what they needed,” he claimed.
Potter, the chief technology officer at ProCircular in Coralville, also shared that O'Brien was employed remotely at ProCircular for about the past year, as he added: “We’re better for knowing him. Sharing somebody who gave so much to the people around him is a privilege.”
