101st Airborne Division Mourns Death of Sgt. Aaron Cox in Hungary Training Accident
FORT CAMPBELL, KY — The U.S. Army’s 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) is mourning the loss of one of its own following a tragic training accident near Camp Croft, Hungary, on June 5, 2025. The soldier has been identified as Sgt. Aaron Cox, a 24-year-old Infantryman from Mabank, Texas, assigned to the “Strike” 2nd Mobile Brigade Combat Team (2MBCT), 101st Airborne Division.
According to military officials, Sgt. Cox died as a result of injuries sustained in a vehicle accident while preparing for Exercise Saber Guardian 25, a major multinational training operation involving NATO allies and partners.
A Devastating Loss
The news of Sgt. Cox’s death has cast a shadow over the tight-knit “Strike” team and the broader 101st Airborne Division community. Col. Duke Reim, commander of the 2MBCT, expressed deep sorrow in a public statement:
“The loss of Sgt. Cox is a tragedy for all of us on the Strike team. He was a strong Soldier and leader, who quickly rose through the ranks while serving. We are in direct contact with his family, ensuring they receive the care and support they need during this difficult time. We would like to thank our Hungarian Allies for their prompt response and continued support to our Soldiers.”
A Promising Career Cut Short
Sgt. Cox enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2021, and after completing training at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was stationed at Fort Campbell in 2022. He demonstrated outstanding leadership potential and quickly distinguished himself among his peers and superiors.
His military education included completion of the Army Basic Leader Course and the Combat Lifesaver Course, both of which are key stepping stones in the career of a developing noncommissioned officer.
This was Sgt. Cox’s second deployment, having previously served in Poland in 2022, where he supported U.S. and allied operations in response to evolving security needs in Eastern Europe.
Decorations and Accomplishments
In his short yet impactful military career, Sgt. Cox received several notable awards and decorations, which speak to his dedication and professionalism:
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Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters
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Army Good Conduct Medal
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National Defense Service Medal
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Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
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Expert Infantryman Badge
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Air Assault Badge
His peers remember him as a driven, reliable, and resilient young man who took pride in his responsibilities and inspired those around him through his leadership and determination.
Family and Community Grieve
Back in Mabank, Texas, the tight-knit community is mourning the tragic loss of one of its own. Friends, family, and former classmates have taken to social media to share memories and pay tribute to Sgt. Cox’s life of service.
“He was always the kind of person who wanted to do something bigger than himself,” said a childhood friend. “He found that in the Army, and we are all proud of what he became.”
Memorial plans are expected to be announced in the coming days as his remains are returned to his family.
International Response and Investigation
U.S. Army officials have thanked Hungarian military personnel for their immediate assistance following the incident and for their ongoing cooperation during Exercise Saber Guardian 25, which aims to strengthen interoperability among NATO forces.
The vehicle accident that led to Sgt. Cox’s death is currently under active investigation by the U.S. Army and Department of Defense authorities to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Legacy of Service
Sgt. Aaron Cox’s untimely death is a sobering reminder of the risks that service members face every day — not only in combat but during training exercises that prepare them to defend national and international security interests.
As flags fly at half-staff at Fort Campbell and tributes pour in from across the military community, Sgt. Cox is remembered not only for his military excellence but for his courage, commitment, and selfless service.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the family, friends, and fellow soldiers of Sgt. Aaron Cox. May his service and sacrifice never be forgotten. 🇺🇸