Senate Honors Ohio Airmen Killed in Iraq Crash

The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution honoring three Ohio Air National Guard airmen killed in a KC-135 refueling plane crash over western Iraq on March 12.[1][2][4] The measure, introduced by Sens. Jon Husted and Bernie Moreno of Ohio, along with Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, Todd Young of Indiana, and others, recognizes Capt. Seth R. Koval, Capt. Curtis J. Angst, and Master Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons of the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus.[2][3][4] The crash also claimed three airmen from Alabama's 99th Air Refueling Squadron, as the crew supported Operation Epic Fury.[1][8]

Husted and Moreno delivered emotional speeches on the Senate floor, calling for a moment of silence and sharing stories of the airmen's service and sacrifice.[2][3][5] "These men carried out dangerous and critical missions in defense of our nation," Husted said, while Moreno noted America is "indebted" to them for protecting freedoms.[2] The resolution expresses condolences to the families and underscores the ongoing risks faced by Guard members in overseas operations.[4]

While this tragedy strikes far from Milwaukee, it resonates with Wisconsin's strong military community, home to the 128th Air Refueling Wing at General Mitchell International Airport, which flies similar KC-135 missions.[Wisconsin State Legislature records] These losses remind residents of the human cost of national defense, with Guard families here knowing the same dangers all too well.

The resolution now stands as a formal record in the Congressional Record, ensuring the airmen's legacies endure.[1][4]