A pilot from Alabama had just been promoted to major in January and had been deployed less than a week when the refueling aircraft he was aboard crashed in Iraq this week, killing him and five others, according to his brother-in-law, James Harrill.
Alex Klinner, 33, leaves behind three small children: 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son. “It’s kind of heartbreaking to say: He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot,” Harrill said.
Klinner was one of three individuals from the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida who lost their lives in the crash. Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey mentioned that they were stationed in Birmingham. The other two victims were identified as Capt. Ariana Savino, 31, of Covington, Washington, and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34, of Bardstown, Kentucky.
Three additional service members assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio, were also killed. They were identified as Capt. Seth Koval, 38; Capt. Curtis Angst, 30; and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28.
The U.S. government reported that the aircraft was in “friendly” airspace, supporting operations against Iran, when an unspecified incident with another aircraft occurred, although the other plane landed safely.
A new father and dedicated officer
Klinner, a graduate of Auburn University and an eight-year veteran of the Air Force, had just moved his family into a new home. His wife, Libby Klinner, shared her heartbreak in an Instagram post, emphasizing the loss their children will feel as they grow up without him.
“They won’t see how goofy and funny he was,” Libby wrote. “They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself.”
Simmons, who worked as a boom operator, was also remembered fondly by his mother, who is making funeral arrangements for her son. His family remarked on his vibrant smile and strong presence.
The crash occurred on a combat mission but was confirmed not to result from any hostile actions. The KC-135 aircraft plays a crucial role in military operations, enabling fuel transfer midair to enhance mission capabilities.
Investigations and Military Response
The U.S. Central Command stated the matter is under investigation, noting there was no friendly or hostile fire involved in the incident. The KC-135 has been in service for over 60 years with the Air Force maintaining a significant fleet of these critical refueling aircraft.
As communities mourn, the legacy of these service members and their sacrifices remains a testament to their commitment to duty and family.
