WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a somber tribute to local heroes, three Ohio Congressmen have introduced a formal resolution to honor the lives and ultimate sacrifice of six U.S. servicemembers killed during a recent combat mission in the Middle East.
Representatives Mike Carey (OH-15), Dave Taylor (OH-02), and Troy Balderson (OH-12) introduced the measure on March 20, 2026, following the tragic loss of a refueling crew during Operation Epic Fury in western Iraq.
The tragedy has hit particularly close to home for Central Ohio, as three of the fallen Airmen were stationed at the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus.
The Local Heroes
Among the six lost in the March 12 refueling mission were three Ohio-based servicemembers who dedicated their lives to the Air National Guard:
- Captain Seth R. Koval (Stoutsville, Ohio): A local hero from the Stoutsville area, Captain Koval was a key member of the 121st Air Refueling Wing.
- Technical Sergeant Tyler H. Simmons (Columbus, Ohio): A veteran sergeant known for his commitment to the mission at Rickenbacker.
- Captain Curtis J. Angst (Wilmington, Ohio): A dedicated officer whose service spanned the 121st Wing.
The other three fallen Airmen—Major John A. Klinner, Captain Ariana G. Savino, and Technical Sergeant Ashley B. Pruitt—served with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron based in Birmingham, Alabama.
“The Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave”
The resolution aims to ensure that the courage of these six individuals is etched into the congressional record.
“The tragic deaths of six Airmen during a combat mission in the Middle East is a devastating loss for our country and our communities here in Ohio,” said Congressman Mike Carey, whose district includes parts of the Rickenbacker area. “America is protected by brave heroes who volunteer to serve, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten.”
Congressman Dave Taylor added, “We owe a debt of gratitude to heroes like them. My heart is with their families as they grieve this unthinkable loss.”
The Mission: Operation Epic Fury
The Airmen were supporting Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led effort in Iraq. Aerial refueling is one of the most dangerous and critical components of modern combat operations, requiring precision and nerves of steel to keep fighter jets and transport planes fueled while over hostile territory.
