Kentucky leaders respond after Sgt. Benjamin Pennington killed in Iran-related attack

GLENDALE, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Kentucky leaders are responding after a Kentucky soldier died from injuries sustained in an attack at a U.S. air base in Saudi Arabia.

According to the United States Department of Defense, Sergeant Benjamin Pennington, 26, died from injuries he received during an attack last week at Prince Sultan Air Base.

Pennington, who was from Glendale, was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson.

Officials say Pennington is the seventh U.S. service member killed in action since the start of Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

In a statement, Andy Beshear called Pennington a hero who “sacrificed everything serving our country” and asked Kentuckians to keep his family in their prayers.

Mitch McConnell also responded, honoring Pennington’s service and offering condolences to his family following the attack.