CEDAR CITY, Utah — The Southern Utah University (SUU) community and military members across the nation are mourning the loss of 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan, a 25-year-old Army officer and current MBA student who was killed in action while serving in Jordan in support of a U.S. mission against the Islamic State group.
Feehan, a native of Ewa Beach, Hawaii, was among two U.S. service members killed in Jordan. The U.S. Central Command confirmed his death alongside that of Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, 19, of Carrollton, Texas. Their deaths have prompted an outpouring of tributes from military leaders, university officials, and communities that knew them.
Southern Utah University confirmed that Feehan was a graduate of the SUU Army ROTC program and was only weeks away from completing his Master of Business Administration degree. The university announced that his MBA will be awarded posthumously in recognition of his dedication and accomplishments.
“Tyler answered the call to serve both our state and our nation with courage and honor,” officials and community leaders said while honoring his sacrifice. SUU President Mindy Benson expressed condolences to Feehan’s family, fellow service members, classmates, and everyone who knew and loved him, saying his sacrifice would forever be remembered by the Thunderbird community.
Feehan received his commission as an Air Defense Artillery Officer through the SUU Army ROTC program in spring 2024. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. During his time at SUU, he also served with the 2nd Battalion, 222nd Field Artillery, Utah Army National Guard in Cedar City.
Tributes have continued from Utah leaders, including Gov. Spencer Cox, who shared condolences with Feehan’s family, fellow soldiers, and the SUU community. Sen. Mike Lee also honored Feehan’s service and asked for prayers for those grieving his loss.
To honor his memory, SUU announced plans to recognize Feehan during its Pioneer Legacy Celebration and display yellow ribbons on campus. The Carter Carillon will also play “The Army Song” in tribute.
1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan is remembered as a dedicated soldier, student, and leader whose commitment to service left a lasting impact. He leaves behind family, friends, classmates, fellow service members, and a nation grateful for his sacrifice.
His courage, dedication, and service will not be forgotten.