US Service Members Killed in Iraq Aircraft Crash Identified

Six U.S. service members killed in a military refueling aircraft crash over Iraq have been identified as members of the Ohio Air National Guard and Florida-based crew members. The crash occurred on March 12 near Turaibil, along the Iraqi-Jordanian border, while the aircraft was taking part in operations against Iran. The victims were praised as 'American heroes' by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The Pentagon has identified six US Air Force airmen killed in a plane crash in western Iraq on Thursday. The airmen were part of a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft that crashed while operating during Operation Epic Fury, the US military's operation in the war with Iran. The deceased airmen were identified as Maj. John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons. The incident was not due to hostile or friendly fire. The airmen were from different units, with some assigned to MacDill Air Force Base in Florida and others to Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Ohio. The crash brings the total number of US troops killed in connection to the war with Iran to 13. The article highlights the service and sacrifice of the deceased airmen, with tributes from their families, colleagues, and government officials.

The US military has identified the six crew members who died in a refuelling plane crash over Iraq on March 12. The victims include four men and two women, with three being part of the Ohio Air National Guard and the others based at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but US authorities have stated it was not due to hostile or friendly fire. The crew members were praised for their service and contributions to their country, with their families mourning their loss.