Ohio Airman Tyler Simmons Among Six Servicemembers Killed in Iraq Crash

Tech. Sgt. Tyler Simmons, a 28-year-old airman from Columbus, Ohio, was one of six U.S. Servicemembers killed when a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq on March 12, 2026. Simmons served with the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing, stationed at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base.

A Life Dedicated to Service

Simmons was remembered by family as a man with an unforgettable smile and a deep passion for his work. His mother, Cheryl Simmons, recounted a recent phone call with her son, where he discussed facing challenges during his deployment, including experiencing enemy fire, but reassured her he was safe. The New York Post reported on this conversation.

Initially working in security, Simmons was encouraged by superiors to train as a boom operator, a role he embraced wholeheartedly. “Once he got in the back of that airplane, that was it. He said, ‘I will retire from this mom. I will retire from this,’” Cheryl Simmons shared. He had even considered becoming a commercial pilot after retiring from the Air National Guard.

Details of the Crash and Operation Epic Fury

The crash occurred during an air refueling mission as part of Operation Epic Fury, involving a collision between two KC-135 Stratotankers in “friendly airspace.” The other aircraft involved landed safely. U.S. Central Command is investigating the incident.

Governor Mike DeWine announced that three of the six servicemembers killed were from the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing. The Columbus Dispatch initially reported this information on March 13, 2026.

Community and Political Response

The loss of Tech. Sgt. Simmons has deeply affected the Columbus community. Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther expressed his condolences, calling Simmons a “true hero.” Representative Joyce Beatty also shared her heartbreak, acknowledging the sacrifice of Simmons and the other five servicemembers. 10TV covered the local reactions.

KC-135 Stratotanker Safety Record

The KC-135 Stratotanker has been in service for over 60 years and has been involved in several accidents, including a fatal crash in 2013. Despite its long service record, the aircraft remains a vital component of the U.S. Air Force’s refueling capabilities.

Remembering Tyler Simmons

Tyler Simmons was a 2015 graduate of Eastmoor Academy in Columbus, where he played football as a quarterback. He enlisted in the military in April 2018. He is survived by his family and friends, who remember him for his infectious smile and dedication to his country.

The crash brings the U.S. Death toll in Operation Epic Fury to at least 13 service members, according to the Pentagon.