SUU To Honor Fallen Student Soldier

Southern Utah University is mourning the loss of one of its own after 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan, an SUU graduate and MBA student, was killed in action July 18 while serving with the U.S. Army in Jordan. He was 25. Military officials said Feehan died during an enemy attack at Muwaffaq Salti Air Base while supporting operations in the region.

Feehan's ties to Southern Utah University ran deep. He earned his commission as an Air Defense Artillery officer through the SUU Army ROTC program in the spring of 2024 before being assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. While attending SUU, he also served with the 2nd Battalion, 222nd Field Artillery of the Utah Army National Guard in Cedar City.

At the time of his death, Feehan was just weeks away from completing his Master of Business Administration degree. The university announced that he had already been approved for graduation and that his MBA will be awarded posthumously in recognition of his academic achievement.

Tributes Planned For The Next Few Weeks

The university plans several tributes to honor Feehan's life and service. A recognition will be held during Thursday night's Pioneer Legacy Celebration, while the Carter Carillon will display a yellow ribbon and play "The Army Song" each day at noon next week. Additional memorial opportunities are expected to be announced.

In a message to the campus community, university leaders said, "Our hearts are with his family, fellow service members, classmates, and all who knew and loved Tyler as we mourn this profound loss together. We are grateful for his service; his sacrifice will forever be remembered by the Thunderbird community."

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SUU also reminded students and employees that counseling and mental health resources are available for those affected by the loss.

25 Songs That Honor Our Soldiers

These 25 songs honor the courage, sacrifice, and strength of our military heroes. From emotional ballads to powerful anthems, each song tells a story that pays tribute to those who serve and the families who stand behind them.

Gallery Credit: Traci Taylor