Six U.S. Service Members Killed in KC-135 Crash in Iraq
BAGHDAD, Iraq — Six U.S. service members died in a KC-135 refueling plane crash on Thursday, Oct. 5, during operations supporting U.S. military efforts in the region.
The incident occurred in “friendly” airspace while the aircraft was engaged in operations against Iran, according to U.S. Central Command. An unspecified incident involving another aircraft preceded the crash; that aircraft landed safely. An investigation is ongoing.
Among the deceased is Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky, who leaves behind two children, including a 3-year-old daughter. Pruitt, an assistant flight chief and instructor, had nearly 900 combat flight hours and had deployed three times since joining the military nine years ago.
Capt. Seth R. Koval, 38, from Stoutsville, Ohio, also perished. An instructor pilot with 19 years of service, Koval had extensive experience in air refueling and was a father of one. He had deployed five times in the last 12 years.
Capt. Curtis J. Angst, 30, of Columbus, Ohio, enlisted in the Ohio Air National Guard in 2015. He had 880 flight hours, including combat experience, and was remembered by his family for his kindness and love for others.
Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, who recently attained the rank of major, had been deployed less than a week. A father of three young children, he was described as generous and helpful.
Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28, also of Columbus, served as a boom operator and earned accolades for his bright demeanor. He joined the Air Force in 2017 and had deployed multiple times.
Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31, from Covington, Washington, served as the chief of current operations for the 99th Air Refueling Squadron. She was responsible for flight scheduling and had over 300 combat hours.
The U.S. military identified the victims late Saturday. U.S. Air Force officials are providing support to the families of the deceased.