Three Ohio Air National Guard Members Killed in Iraq Plane Crash
Three members of the Ohio Air National Guard were among six U.S. Service members killed when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq on Thursday, March 13, 2026. The crash occurred in “friendly airspace” following an unspecified incident involving two aircraft, with the other plane landing safely in Israel, according to 10TV.
Operation Epic Fury and U.S. Central Command
The service members were supporting operations against Iran as part of Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2026, with U.S. And partner forces striking Iran to “dismantle its security infrastructure.” U.S. Central Command, which oversees military operations in the Middle East, is investigating the circumstances of the crash, stating it was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. Ideastream reports that at least 13 U.S. Service members have been killed since the start of Operation Epic Fury, with approximately 140 injured, including eight severely.
Ohio National Guard and the 121st Air Refueling Wing
The three Ohioans were deployed with the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing, based at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus. Cleveland 19 identified one of the fallen service members as Air Force Tech Sergeant Tyler Simmons of Columbus, a 2015 graduate of Eastmoor Academy High School where he played football.
Flags at Half-Staff and Condolences
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all public buildings and grounds statewide in honor of the three Ohio Air National Guard members. The flags will remain lowered until sunset on the day of their funerals. Governor DeWine expressed his condolences, stating, “Fran and I are deeply saddened by this news and offer our sincere condolences to their families.” WFMJ reported DeWine shared the update on social media on Friday evening.
Investigation and Further Details
The military will determine when to release the identities of all six service members. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the crew members “American heroes” but did not provide additional details about the crash, according to 10TV. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.