DOVER, DELAWARE (TNND) — President Donald Trump attended a dignified transfer ceremony on March 18 honoring six U.S. service members killed in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in Iraq.
The service members died last week while supporting operations amid heightened tensions in the region. The ceremony took place at Dover Air Force Base and was attended by family members and senior military officials.
The deceased service members are:
- Maj. John “Alex” 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
- Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons, 28, of Columbus, Ohio
According to the U.S. Air Force, all six were killed when the aircraft crashed in western Iraq. Witnesses reported a somber atmosphere as family members stood nearby while the American flag-draped transfer cases were carefully moved from the aircraft.
The ceremony is considered one of the most solemn duties of the President, emphasizing sacrifice. The transfer followed strict protocols with no speeches, ensuring a moment of silence and respect.
Authorities confirmed that both the crash and the military operations surrounding the incident are under ongoing investigation.