President Donald Trump paid his respects Wednesday at Dover Air Force Base, where the remains of six U.S. service members killed in a military aircraft crash were returned to their families.
The solemn ceremony, known as a dignified transfer, marked the second time since the launch of military operations involving Iran on February 28 that Trump has attended the ritual. He has previously described the experience as one of the most difficult duties as commander in chief.
Joining him were Pete Hegseth, Mike Johnson, and Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, along with several lawmakers.
All six crew members were killed when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed over western Iraq while supporting operations. U.S. Central Command reported the crash occurred in friendly airspace and was not caused by hostile or friendly fire. The circumstances remain under investigation.
The crash is part of a broader military campaign known as Operation Epic Fury, which has now claimed at least 13 U.S. service members, with approximately 200 others injured, including several critically.
Among those killed were three personnel assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base:
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Maj. John A. “Alex” Klinner, 33
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Capt. Ariana Linse Savino, 31
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Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt, 34
The other three were assigned to the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base:
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Capt. Seth Koval, 38
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Capt. Curtis Angst, 30
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Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, 28
Family members and colleagues remembered the fallen service members for their courage, dedication, and impact on others. Tributes highlighted their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to service.
The dignified transfer ceremony was closed to the media at the request of the families, in accordance with military policy. Trump spent nearly two hours at the base and did not speak publicly during the visit.
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