Ohio mourns airmen killed in Iraq refueling crash
PUBLISHED Mar 14, 2026, 11:36 AM ET
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Columbus, Ohio — U.S. military confirmed that a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on March 12, 2026, after an unspecified incident involving another aircraft in friendly airspace. U.S. Central Command and the Department of Defense identified six crewmembers killed, including Capt. Seth Koval, Capt. Curtis Angst and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons of the Ohio Air National Guard. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine ordered flags lowered until the airmen's funerals. Local communities and families held memorials and public statements this week as officials released service biographies and condolences. Officials and families shared memories. Based on 8 articles reviewed and supporting research.
By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- March 12, 2026: A KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq during refueling operations.
- U.S. Central Command reported the crash followed an unspecified incident involving another aircraft in friendly airspace.
- The Department of Defense identified all six crewmembers killed in the crash.
- Ohio officials identified three Ohio Air National Guard members and Gov. DeWine ordered flags lowered until funerals.
- Local memorials, official biographies, and ongoing military investigations followed in the subsequent days.
News Intelligence
- This tragic event impacts our community and nation. It's a reminder of the risks our servicemen and women face daily. If you're in Ohio, join in honoring these heroes by observing lowered flags. Share their stories to keep their memory alive.
- Articles Published:
- 12
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
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- Neutral:
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- Distribution:
- Left 0%, Center 92%, Right 8%
Local support organizations and military family assistance programs coordinated counseling, benefits, and logistical support for survivors and next of kin following the fatal crash.
The families of the six deceased service members, the Ohio Air National Guard units involved, and their hometown communities experienced profound loss, grief, and operational impacts following the March 12 crash.
Coverage of Story:
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From Center
Ohio mourns airmen killed in Iraq refueling crash
WKYC 3 Cleveland WKEF WKEF http://www.wtol.com Cincinnati The Record Herald WKYC 3 Cleveland WKEF The Columbus Dispatch WLEX https://www.mysuncoast.com
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