A somber order came from Alabama Governor Kay Ivey this week: flags across the state were to be lowered to half-staff, a gesture of profound respect for three service members lost in a tragic incident over Iraq.
The fallen heroes, all with ties to Birmingham, Alabama, were aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling aircraft when it went down during Operation Epic Fury. Six service members perished in the crash, a devastating blow to the military community and families left behind.
Governor Ivey specifically directed the flag lowering to coincide with the interment of Major John A. Klinner, a Trussville, Alabama native and proud Auburn University alumnus. The date of his final farewell remains unannounced, but the state mourns his loss deeply.
Major John A. “Alex” Klinner, just 33 years old, dedicated eight years of his life to the Air Force, serving as chief of squadron standardization and evaluations. His commitment was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Air Medal and the Air and Space Commendation Medal.
He leaves behind a grieving wife, Libby, and three young children, their lives forever altered by this sudden tragedy. The outpouring of support for the Klinner family has been extraordinary, with a GoFundMe campaign quickly surpassing $1.4 million in donations from over 13,000 individuals.
Alongside Major Klinner, Captain Ariana G. Savino, 31, of Washington, also served with the 99th Air Refueling Squadron. A Central Washington University graduate and veteran of over 300 combat hours, she was a skilled and dedicated airwoman.
Technical Sergeant Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, of Kentucky, completed the trio of fallen airmen from the squadron. With over 900 combat flight hours and two associate’s degrees, she represented the dedication and expertise within the unit.
Sergeant Pruitt is survived by her husband, Gregory, a young daughter, and a stepson, all now navigating a future without her presence. The loss echoes through their family and the wider military community.
These three individuals – Major Klinner, Captain Savino, and Sergeant Pruitt – represent the ultimate sacrifice made in service to the nation, their memory a solemn reminder of the costs of freedom and the bravery of those who defend it.
