In Honor of Six United States Airmen Lost in Iraq

On this day, Fire Line remembers six United States Airmen who lost their lives when their refueling aircraft went down in Iraq. They were serving far from home, carrying out a mission that sustains others — a mission built on precision, endurance, and quiet courage.

We honor:

Name Rank Service
Maj. John A. Klinner United States Air Force Aerial Refueling Operations
Capt. Ariana G. Savino United States Air Force Aerial Refueling Operations
Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt United States Air Force Aerial Refueling Operations
Capt. Seth R. Koval United States Air Force Aerial Refueling Operations
Capt. Curtis J. Angst United States Air Force Aerial Refueling Operations
Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons United States Air Force Aerial Refueling

 

Aerial refueling is one of the most demanding roles in military aviation. It requires absolute trust, technical mastery, and a commitment to the mission that few ever witness but many depend on. These six Airmen embodied that standard.

Their loss is felt across the Air Force, across the joint force, and across every community that loves someone who serves. Each Airman leaves behind a story of dedication, a circle of loved ones, and a legacy of service that deserves to be remembered with dignity.

Fire Line stands with their families, their units, and all who served beside them.
We honor their courage.
We honor their sacrifice.
And we carry their memory forward.

May their names endure.
May their service be remembered.
May their legacy live on.