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Six US Airmen Killed in Iraq Plane Crash
Pentagon identifies crew members aboard KC-135 refueling aircraft that went down in western Iraq
Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:18am
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The Pentagon has identified the six US Air Force airmen who were killed in an aircraft crash in western Iraq on Thursday. The crew members were aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling plane when it went down, with the military stating the incident was not due to hostile or friendly fire.
Why it matters
The tragic loss of these six service members highlights the ongoing risks and dangers faced by US military personnel deployed overseas, even in non-combat situations. The investigation into the cause of the crash will be closely watched to determine if there were any mechanical, operational, or other factors that contributed to the accident.
The details
The airmen killed in the crash were identified as Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, of Auburn, Alabama; Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington; Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky; Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, of Mooresville, Indiana; Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, of Wilmington, Ohio; and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio. The Pentagon stated the incident was 'not due to hostile fire or friendly fire' and that the crash is still under investigation.
- The aircraft crash occurred on Thursday, March 13, 2026.
- The Pentagon identified the six airmen killed on Saturday, March 15, 2026.
The players
US Air Force
The branch of the United States Armed Forces responsible for aerial warfare.
Pentagon
The headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.
What’s next
The Pentagon stated the incident is still under investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by members of the US military, even in non-combat roles, and the importance of thoroughly investigating such accidents to prevent future tragedies.
