Thousands donate to families of two Fort Bragg soldiers killed in Middle East

FORT BRAGG, N.C. (WNCN) — As two Fort Bragg families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, thousands of people across the country are helping carry the weight of their loss.

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Online fundraisers created in honor of 1st Lt. Tyler Feehan and Staff Sgt. Michael Swinton continue to grow, offering financial support and heartfelt messages to the families of the two soldiers killed days apart while serving in the Middle East. 

Feehan, 25, was killed July 18 during an Iranian attack on an air base in Jordan. His death sent shockwaves through the Fort Bragg community and beyond.

A GoFundMe created in his honor has raised more than $81,000. According to the fundraiser, Feehan’s family plans to use the donations to establish a scholarship for ROTC cadets, ensuring his legacy of leadership and service lives on for future generations.

Swinton, 30, was killed July 19 during a controlled detonation of a downed Iranian drone at an air base in Iraq.

His GoFundMe has raised just over $1,500. Organizers explained that the money will help cover household expenses for his wife and two children, funeral costs, travel for family members and long-term support for his children.

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While the donations cannot erase the pain of losing a husband, father, son or friend, supporters hope they can ease some of the burden the families now face.

Thousands of donors have also shared messages of gratitude, offering prayers, condolences and thanks for the soldiers’ service and sacrifice.

For the families of Feehan and Swinton, those acts of kindness have become reminders that they are not grieving alone.

Funeral services for both soldiers are scheduled this week as family members, fellow service members and community members gather to honor two lives cut short in service to the nation.

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