Hudson Valley Native Killed In Syria Explosion

PINE PLAINS, NY — One of the four Americans killed in an explosion in Syria Wednesday was from the Hudson Valley. Navy Chief Cryptologic Technician (Interpretive) Shannon M. Kent, 35, of Pine Plains, Dutchess County, was among those killed in the explosion in Manbji, Syria.

The Department of Defense said the blast was from a suicide improvised explosive device. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack.

Kent, who lived in Maryland, had been in the Navy since enlisting in 2003 and received awards and decorations during her tenure in the service.

In a statement, Denise Vola, CWR 66 Command Senior Enlisted Leader, said Kent's drive, determination and tenacity were infectious.

"Although she has left us way too soon, she will not be forgotten, and her legacy will live on with us," she said.

Also killed in the explosion were Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jonathan R. Farmer, 37, of Boynton Beach, Florida, and Scott A. Wirtz, 42 of St. Louis, a civilian employee of the DOD. A fourth American who worked as a DOD contractor has not been identified.

Three other service members were wounded in the explosion.

Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro said that the county mourns Kent's death.

"May her light shine on through her friends and loved ones and may her family find peace during this difficult time," he said in a prepared statement.

Molinaro directed that flags on all Dutchess County facilities will fly at half staff in Kent's honor and memory.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo likewise directed that flags on state government buildings be flown at half staff. They will be lowered on Friday until interment.

Cuomo said the family of New York mourns the loss of Kent.

He said she "stepped up to serve her country and dedicated herself to a life of service, following in the footsteps of her father Colonel Stephen J. Smith of the state police. We owe her our eternal gratitude for her selfless dedication and sacrifice.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers I extend my deepest sympathies to her family and loved ones," Cuomo said.

Rep. Antonio Delgado, D-Rhinebeck, said Kent devoted her life to protecting America and defending democracy.

"This is a terrible tragedy and heartbreaking loss," he said. "She provides an example to all of us with her dedication and sacrifice for our country, and her memory will live on because she defined what true service means.

"My thoughts and prayers are with her children, husband and the rest of her family and friends at this difficult time," Delgado said.

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Photo credit: From left, photo of Jonathan Farmer via U.S. Army, photo of Shannon Kent released by the U.S. Navy, photo of Scott Wirtz via DIA.