(WBKO) — Governor Andy Beshear has ordered flags at all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise to sunset Friday in honor of a Kentucky soldier who died while supporting Operation Epic Fury.
According to the U.S. Department of War, Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington, 26, of Glendale, died March 8 from injuries sustained during an enemy attack on March 1 at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. He was assigned to the 1st Space Battalion, 1st Space Brigade at Fort Carson, Colorado.
Pennington, who was posthumously promoted to staff sergeant, was honored during a memorial service held Saturday at Central Hardin High School.
A private inurnment is scheduled Friday at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central.
The governor is encouraging individuals, businesses and organizations across the commonwealth to join in the tribute by lowering their flags.