Cody A. Khork Obituary, Death; The Winter Haven community is mourning the loss of Captain Cody A. Khork, a proud native son and dedicated service member who died on March 1, 2026, while deployed in Kuwait. Captain Khork was one of four U.S. Army Reserve soldiers who lost their lives while supporting overseas military operations, a sacrifice that has brought deep sorrow to his hometown and to those who served alongside him.
City officials extended their deepest condolences to Captain Khork’s family, friends, and fellow soldiers, noting that his passing is felt profoundly across Winter Haven. His death serves as a solemn reminder of the risks faced by service members who commit themselves to protecting the nation far from home.
A graduate of Lake Region High School in 2008 and Florida Southern College in 2014, Khork demonstrated discipline and dedication from an early age. While continuing his education, he enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard in 2009. He later commissioned as a Military Police Officer in the United States Army Reserve in 2014, taking on leadership responsibilities that would define his military career.
During his service, Captain Khork deployed in support of missions in Saudi Arabia in 2018, Guantanamo Bay in 2021, and Poland in 2024. Each deployment reflected the confidence placed in him as an officer and the breadth of his operational experience. His service record included multiple medals and commendations recognizing his leadership, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to duty.
Beyond his uniform, those who knew Cody Khork remember him as warm, approachable, and unfailingly positive. Friends recall his easy smile and his ability to reconnect with others as if no time had passed. Neighbors and classmates describe a loyal friend who carried himself with humility and always looked out for those around him.
Winter Haven honors Captain Cody A. Khork not only for his service to the nation, but for the character he embodied — courage, loyalty, and quiet strength. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his family, his fellow soldiers, and a grateful community that recognizes the ultimate sacrifice he made.
The city has asked residents to keep Captain Khork’s loved ones in their thoughts and prayers as they navigate this time of profound loss.