Six U.S. Air Force airmen who died in a military plane crash in western Iraq are being remembered for their courage, leadership, and dedication to service.
The Pentagon identified the victims as Maj. John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons.
The crew members were aboard a KC 135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft when it crashed during operations in Iraq.
The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that the crash was not caused by hostile fire. Details about the incident are being reviewed by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Decorated Service Members Identified
Maj. John “Alex” Klinner served as chief of standardization and evaluation for the 99th Air Refueling Squadron.
He oversaw training and flight proficiency for more than 30 aircrew members and had completed multiple deployments in Europe and the Middle East.
Klinner leaves behind his wife and three young children.
His family described him as a devoted father and servant leader who always helped others quietly.
Captain Remembered for Leadership and Mentorship
Capt. Ariana Savino served as chief of current operations for the 99th Air Refueling Squadron.
She coordinated daily missions and training for the unit.
Friends described her as a bright leader who inspired others and mentored young Latina students interested in aviation.
U.S. Senator Patty Murray said Savino represented the best of Washington state and served her country with courage.
Boom Operator Known for His Smile
Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons served as a boom operator responsible for transferring fuel between aircraft during flight.
Family members remembered him for his “million dollar smile” and lifelong passion for aviation.
Simmons was the only child of his parents and had dreamed of serving in the military.
Columbus city officials called him a hero who dedicated his life to protecting others.
Air refueling missions are a critical part of long distance military operations, according to the U.S. Air Force.
Airman Instructor and Squadron Leaders Honored
Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt served as an instructor boom operator and assistant flight chief of operations.
She trained other boom operators in the precise techniques required for midair refueling missions.
Capt. Seth Koval had served in the Air Force for nearly two decades and trained pilots for global refueling missions.
Capt. Curtis Angst, an aerospace engineering graduate from the University of Cincinnati, became a qualified KC 135 pilot after completing advanced training.
Leaders Pay Tribute to Fallen Airmen
State leaders across the country shared tributes to the fallen service members.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey said the airmen were not only outstanding service members but also valued members of their communities.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine said their missions required courage and commitment to protecting others.
MacDill Air Force Base officials also expressed deep grief over the loss of members of the 99th Air Refueling Squadron.
Investigation Into Crash Continues
The Pentagon confirmed the aircraft crash occurred during operations connected to Operation Epic Fury.
Two aircraft were involved in the mission, but the second aircraft landed safely.
Investigators are reviewing the incident to determine the cause of the crash.
The six airmen’s deaths bring the total number of U.S. service members killed in connection with the war with Iran to thirteen.
Military leaders say the sacrifices of the crew will be remembered as part of the long tradition of service and dedication in the U.S. Air Force.