Patterson, Cody James
Male
Verified U.S. Army Specialist Cody James Patterson, 24, of Philomath, Oregon, was killed in action on October 6, 2013, in Zhari District, Afghanistan, while serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment.
Their Story
Cody James Patterson grew up in Philomath, Oregon, and enlisted in the United States Army. He was assigned to Company B, 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, an elite special operations unit based at Fort Benning, Georgia.
On October 6, 2013, Specialist Patterson was killed by enemy small-arms fire during a combat operation in Zhari District, Kandahar province, Afghanistan. The operation was reportedly targeting a Taliban leader in the district, a longtime insurgent stronghold.
Patterson's death occurred during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001. By late 2013, the U.S. was drawing down its surge forces and transitioning security responsibilities to Afghan forces, though special operations missions against insurgent networks continued.
His death was reported by the Department of Defense. Patterson was posthumously promoted from Private First Class to Specialist. He was survived by his parents and siblings.
Patterson was remembered by his unit for his professionalism. In Philomath, a memorial run was reportedly established in his honor.
Explore Further
Spc. Cody Patterson was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.
