The Iran conflict has turned deadly for US forces, and it's bad news for American troops and their families.

• 17 US service members have been killed in a war many argue the country should never have entered.
• Iran can't strike the US directly, so it's hitting American bases and assets across the Middle East instead.
• Each death means a family destroyed by a fight critics say was avoidable.
• Anger is growing among veterans who see the losses as needless.

Outlook: The attacks on US positions in the region are likely to continue as long as American forces stay in range.