Rodriguez, John Phillips
Male
Verified U.S. Army Sergeant John Phillips Rodriguez, 23, of Hemet, California, was killed in action on January 12, 2017, at Shuaiha Port, Kuwait, while serving with Company A, 2nd Engineer Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team.
Their Story
John Phillips Rodriguez was a 23-year-old sergeant from Hemet, California. He served in the U.S. Army with Company A, 2nd Engineer Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based out of Fort Bliss, Texas. His unit deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
On January 12, 2017, Rodriguez died at Shuaiha Port in Kuwait. The Department of Defense stated he was killed in action. According to subsequent reports, the incident was a non-combat related vehicle rollover accident that occurred during a training exercise at the port facility.
Rodriguez's death occurred during Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S.-led military intervention against the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria. The operation began in August 2014. By early 2017, coalition forces were engaged in major offensives to recapture key cities like Mosul in Iraq and Raqqa in Syria from ISIS control.
The Department of Defense officially announced Rodriguez's death on January 13, 2017. His body was returned to the United States. He was posthumously awarded the Army Commendation Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal.
Sergeant Rodriguez is remembered by his unit and community. His name is inscribed on the Global War on Terrorism memorials. Family and fellow soldiers described him as a dedicated soldier and a loyal friend.
Explore Further
John Phillips Rodriguez was killed during Operation Inherent Resolve (ongoing since August 2014). See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Villotcarrasco, Yeshabel, Spears, Jordan Lee, Walker, Jonathan Doyle, Neal, Sean Patrick.
