03/15/2026
Flying tankers is inherently dangerous. Having been KC-135 pilots, we at HWC feel this loss deeply. These brave men and women gave their all, for all of us. There are no wise words or sage council we can give to the grieving family members or squadron mates. All we can say is God bless all of you, may He comfort you in your grief. Here's a toast...
Shannon and I join our entire National Guard family in mourning the loss of six brave KC-135 Airmen, including three Ohio Air National Guardsmen assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing and three active-duty Airmen from the 99th Air Refueling Squadron, a partner unit with the Alabama National Guard’s 117th Air Refueling Wing.
Maj. John A. Klinner, Capt. Ariana G. Savino, Tech. Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons—Heroes, all.
Our air refueling warriors enable every aerial combat mission to succeed by skillfully transferring tens of thousands of pounds of fuel at cruising altitudes and high speeds, extending global reach and delivering decisive air dominance for our Joint Force. Combat aviators in every service understand the critical role of our air refueling crews and boom operators.
Immense respect for these valiant Airmen. Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt condolences to their Families, Wingmen and the entire tanker community.
