MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Six American soldiers who lost their lives over western Iraq while supporting a mission are being remembered and honored by the U.S. Senate. The lawmakers passed a resolution recognizing their bravery, service, and ultimate sacrifice.
The resolution, introduced by U.S. Senator Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and co-sponsored by Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Jon Husted (R-Ohio), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), passed unanimously.
It honors Major Alex Klinner of Auburn, Alabama; Major Ariana G. Savino of Covington, Washington; Technical Sergeant Ashley B. Pruitt of Bardstown, Kentucky; Captain Seth R. Koval of Mooresville, Indiana; Captain Curtis J. Angst of Wilmington, Ohio; and Master Sergeant Tyler H. Simmons of Columbus, Ohio.
The airmen were serving with the 99th and 121st Air Refueling Wings at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base in Birmingham and Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio, when the KC-135 aircraft was lost during Operation Epic Fury.
“Our nation will be forever grateful to these American heroes for their exemplary service and ultimate sacrifice. While their lives were tragically cut short in devoted service to our country, we will never forget their selflessness as they bravely fought to protect and defend Americans. We are deeply proud to honor them in this resolution and continue to pray for their families and loved ones during this unthinkable time,” said Senator Britt.
Other senators also paid tribute, sharing personal reflections on the cost of service and the enduring legacy of these airmen:
- “When you see flag-draped caskets carrying heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, it’s a sobering reminder of the cost of America’s freedom. Each of these service members showed generational courage, and this resolution is just a small part of ensuring their stories are never forgotten. Our prayers continue to be with their brave families and loved ones as they navigate this horrific loss,” said Senator Tuberville.
- “We continue to mourn the loss of Hoosier Captain Seth Koval and the Airmen who perished while bravely answering the call to serve. We will never forget the ultimate sacrifice these American heroes made and will continue to pray for their loved ones,” said Senator Young.
- “Our nation is grateful for the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We will never forget their courage and selfless service. Please join Amanda and I in praying for Captain Seth Koval’s family and all the families impacted,” said Senator Banks.
Last week, Senator Britt joined President Donald J. Trump, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General John D. Caine, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, and other senators at Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer of the fallen airmen.