Source: Fox News
Summary
The Pentagon has identified six U.S. service members who were killed in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in western Iraq during a combat mission in support of Operation Epic Fury. The incident occurred on Thursday in “friendly” airspace and involved an unspecified interaction with another aircraft. The six airmen were assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida and the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus, Ohio. Those killed were Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, 33; Capt. Ariana Savino, 31; Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34; Capt. Seth Koval, 38; Capt. Curtis Angst, 30; and Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28.
Our Reading
Once again, the discussion returns to a familiar question.
The names and faces of the fallen are shared, their stories and memories told. The details of the incident are recounted, the circumstances of the crash explained. The Pentagon and military officials provide information, the families and loved ones share their grief. The narrative of service and sacrifice is woven, the notion of “friendly” territory and “combat mission” is repeated. The KC-135 Stratotanker’s role in refueling other aircraft and sustaining operations is highlighted. The incident is investigated, the cause of the crash not yet determined.
And so, the ritual of remembrance and recognition continues, a familiar phase in the cycle of military operations and their consequences.
Author: Evan Null
