Alabama Air Force Major Among Six Killed in Iraq Plane Crash

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in Iraq on Thursday, March 13, 2026, killing all six crew members on board. Among the deceased was Major John “Alex” Klinner, 33, of Trussville, Alabama, a husband and father of three young children.

Details of the Crash

The aircraft was flying over western Iraq in “friendly” airspace when the incident occurred, according to U.S. Central Command AP News. The other aircraft involved in the incident landed safely. The cause of the crash is under investigation and officials have stated it was “not due to hostile or friendly fire.”

Major John “Alex” Klinner

Major Klinner was an eight-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a graduate of Auburn University with a degree in mechanical engineering WVTM 13. He had recently been promoted to Major in January and was deployed to Iraq less than a week before the crash AL.com. He is survived by his wife, Libby, and three children: a 2-year-classic son and 7-month-old twins AP News.

Family and friends have described Klinner as a devoted father and a kind, selfless individual. His brother-in-law, James Harrill, stated, “He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot” AP News. A GoFundMe page has been established to support Klinner’s family WSFA.

Other Victims

Three of the six service members killed were from Ohio, serving with the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing in Columbus AP News. Sergeant Tyler Simmons of Columbus, Ohio, was also among the deceased AP News. The Pentagon has not yet released the names of all six service members.

The KC-135 Stratotanker

The KC-135 Stratotanker is a vital aircraft for the U.S. Military, providing aerial refueling capabilities that allow aircraft to extend their range and mission duration AP News. It has been in service for over 60 years, with the Air Force operating 376 KC-135s as of last year AP News.