Story perspectives

Tragic KC-135 Crash in Iraq Claims Six U.S. Lives

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Six U.S. service members died in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in Iraq on March 12, 2023.
Among the deceased are Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, who had nearly 900 combat flight hours, and Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31.
Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, who had just been promoted, also perished, leaving behind three young children.
The crash occurred in friendly airspace and is under investigation; U.S. Central Command confirmed it was not due to hostile fire.
This incident raises the U.S. death toll in the conflict to at least 13 service members.

History

Historical Context

The U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 initiated a prolonged military engagement, resulting in significant casualties. By 2023, the U.S. Central Command reported at least 13 service members had died in various incidents, including the recent KC-135 crash involving Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt and Capt. Ariana G. Savino, highlighting ongoing risks faced by military personnel even in non-combat situations.

1 of 2

Story summary

Six U.S. service members died in a KC-135 refueling aircraft crash in Iraq on March 12, 2023.
Among the deceased are Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, who had nearly 900 combat flight hours, and Capt. Ariana G. Savino, 31.
Maj. John A. Klinner, 33, who had just been promoted, also perished, leaving behind three young children.
The crash occurred in friendly airspace and is under investigation; U.S. Central Command confirmed it was not due to hostile fire.
This incident raises the U.S. death toll in the conflict to at least 13 service members.

1 / 2