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Six Killed as Refueling Plane Crashes in Iraq
15 Mar
Summary
- Six service members died when a refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq.
- The pilot, Alex Klinner, was recently promoted and deployed.
- The crash occurred in friendly airspace during an operation against Iran.
Six U.S. service members perished when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq earlier this week. The incident occurred in "friendly" airspace while the plane supported operations against Iran. The aircraft experienced an unspecified issue after an encounter with another plane, which landed safely.
Among the deceased was Major Alex Klinner, 33, from Birmingham, Alabama, who had been promoted in January and deployed less than a week prior. He is survived by his wife and three young children. Also lost were Capt. Ariana Savino, 31, from Washington; Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34, from Kentucky; Capt. Seth Koval, 38, from Indiana/Ohio; Capt. Curtis Angst, 30, from Ohio; and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28, from Ohio.
The KC-135, a vital aircraft in service for over 60 years, refuels other planes midair. Military officials are investigating the crash, confirming it was not due to hostile or friendly fire. Families remember the fallen service members for their character, dedication, and sacrifice.
