6 US Service Members Killed in Iraq Air Crash

A Kentucky mother was among those who died when a refueling plane crashed in western Iraq.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 11:18pm

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Six U.S. service members, including a woman raising two children in Kentucky, were killed when a refueling plane crashed in western Iraq last week while supporting operations against Iran. The victims were from military units in Alabama, Florida, and Ohio. The crash is under investigation, but the plane was in "friendly" airspace at the time.

Why it matters

The crash highlights the ongoing dangers U.S. service members face in the conflict with Iran, as well as the sacrifices military families make. It also raises questions about the safety and maintenance of the aging KC-135 refueling aircraft, which has been in service for over 60 years.

The details

The victims included Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, a 34-year-old mother from Kentucky who was an assistant flight chief and instructor; Maj. John A. "Alex" Klinner, a 33-year-old pilot from Alabama who had just been promoted and left behind three young children; and four other service members from Ohio and Alabama. The KC-135 refueling plane was supporting operations against Iran when an unspecified incident occurred, causing the crash.

  • The crash occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
  • Maj. Klinner had deployed less than a week before the crash.

The players

Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt

A 34-year-old mother from Bardstown, Kentucky who was an assistant flight chief and instructor with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron.

Maj. John A. "Alex" Klinner

A 33-year-old pilot from Birmingham, Alabama who had just been promoted and left behind three young children.

Tyler Simmons

A 28-year-old boom operator with the Ohio Air National Guard's 166th Air Refueling Squadron.

Capt. Ariana G. Savino

A 31-year-old pilot with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron, serving as its chief of current operations.

Capt. Seth R. Koval

A 38-year-old instructor pilot with the KC135R Stratotanker and aircraft commander with the 121st Air Refueling Wing.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— U.S. Air Force Col. Ed Szczepanik, Commander of the 6th Air Refueling Wing (News release)

“Alex was one of those guys that had this steady command about him. He was literally one of the most kindest, giving people.”

— James Harrill, Maj. Klinner's brother-in-law (Interview)

“Tyler's smile could light up any room, his strong presence would fill it. His parents, grandparents, family and friends are grief stricken for the loss of life.”

— Tyler Simmons' family (Statement)

What’s next

The crash is being investigated by the U.S. military to determine the exact cause.

The takeaway

This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks and sacrifices made by U.S. service members, especially those supporting operations in the conflict with Iran. It also raises concerns about the safety and maintenance of the aging KC-135 refueling aircraft fleet.