Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in Tallahassee and Winter Haven to honor Maj. Cody Khork, the 35-year-old Winter Haven soldier killed in a drone strike in Kuwait. Khork was among six Army Reserve service members killed March 1 in the attack at a command center, with the incident still under investigation. The governor directed all U.S. and state flags at half-staff from sunrise to sunset at the state capitol and all local and state government buildings in Winter Haven.
“He is remembered not only for his service to our Nation and State but as a true American hero who exemplified the values of patriotism, leadership, and selfless service,” DeSantis said in a memorandum. “Our prayers go out to the family he leaves behind.” The governor specifically ordered the tribute for Saturday, March 21, 2026, according to his official announcement issued March 20.
“I hereby direct the flags of the United States and the State of Florida to be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol in Tallahassee, Florida, and all local and state buildings, installations, and grounds throughout the City of Winter Haven from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, March 21, 2026,” DeSantis stated in the official directive. Khork was brought home to Polk County on March 18, greeted by a large show of support from law enforcement, military members and the community.
Khork’s military career began when he enlisted in the National Guard in 2009, according to the city of Winter Haven. He commissioned as a Military Police Officer in the Army Reserve in 2014 and deployed to Saudi Arabia in 2018, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in 2021, and Poland in 2024. The Lake Region High School graduate later attended Florida Southern College, where a new ROTC scholarship was established in his name to support cadets pursuing military service.
Khork won numerous accolades during his military career, including the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal and Army Superior Unit Award. His family described him as patriotic with a deep sense of duty. “He was 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,” his mother, Donna Burhans, father, James Khork, and stepmother, Stacey Khork, said in a statement.
U.S. Sen. Rick Scott joined other Florida lawmakers in honoring Khork after his death was announced. “Ann and I offer our deepest condolences to his family, and extend the endless gratitude of our state and nation for which he made the ultimate sacrifice to protect,” Scott said in a statement. The procession moved through Lakeland to honor Khork’s life and service, drawing community members to the streets near Florida Southern College.
The ROTC scholarship established at Florida Southern College will cover tuition, room and board each year for an outstanding junior or senior in the program. Several people who gathered to honor Khork’s return told reporters they did not know him personally but felt compelled to support his family and honor his service. Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, and Khork will be laid to rest Monday, March 23, at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.