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In TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA), the Department of War has announced the names of the six Air Force Airmen who tragically lost their lives in the KC-135 crash that occurred in western Iraq.
The airmen were part of a U.S. military refueling mission when the aircraft went down in secure airspace during Operation Epic Fury, as stated by U.S. Central Command.
- Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Ala.
- Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, of Covington, Wash.
- Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Ky.
- Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Ind.
- Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio
- Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio
Among the fallen, Maj. Klinner, Capt. Savino, and Tech. Sgt. Pruitt were serving with the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa.
Meanwhile, Capt. Koval, Capt. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Simmons were members of the 121st Air Refueling Wing stationed at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio.
Capt. Koval, Capt. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Simmons were assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Alex, Ariana and Ashley. To lose a member of the Air Force family is excruciatingly painful, especially to those who know them as son, daughter, brother, sister, spouse, mom, or dad. To lose them at the same time is unimaginable. Our hearts and minds are with the family, friends and loved ones of our fallen Airmen. Our communities feel this loss deeply and Team MacDill will ensure their sacrifices and service to our nation are never forgotten. We will honor them each and every day as we continue to answer our nation’s call.”
— U.S. Air Force Col. Ed Szczepanik, 6th Air Refueling Wing Commander
