Sen. Jon Husted (R-Ohio) attended a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base on March 19 to honor six crew members who died in the KC-135 crash in Iraq on March 12, 2026.
The event recognized the sacrifice of Capt. Seth Koval, Capt. Curtis Angst, Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, Maj. John Klinner, Capt. Ariana Savino and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt. Three of the fallen—Koval, Angst, and Simmons—served in the Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing.
Husted joined President Donald Trump, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Speaker of the U.S. House Mike Johnson, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs General Dan Caine, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine and other Members of Congress to pay tribute to the airmen.
“Tina and I are praying for the families of these airmen as they mourn this immeasurable loss. Capt. Seth Koval, Capt. Curtis Angst, Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, Maj. John Klinner, Capt. Ariana Savino and Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt put the safety of their fellow Americans above themselves, serving with courage and making the ultimate sacrifice for our country. For their service, patriotism and heroism they have earned the thanks of a grateful nation,” said Husted.
According to the official website, Husted serves on Senate committees focused on health, education, labor and pensions; small business and entrepreneurship; environment and public works; and aging. He previously served as Speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives where he advanced tax reductions and educational choice scholarships during his tenure. The official website also notes that Husted held positions as Ohio secretary of state and lieutenant governor before joining the U.S. Senate.
Husted has a background in athletics as an All-American defensive back who helped lead the University of Dayton Flyers to a Division III football national championship according to his official biography. He earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Dayton. The official website reports that he raised three children with his wife Tina while living in Columbus.
Husted honored these servicemembers on the Senate floor prior to attending the ceremony at Dover Air Force Base.