Two soldiers named after US plane crashes in Iraq
Alex Kliner, 33, was deployed a week before he refueled The plane crashed in western Iraq On March 12.
All six crew members were killed.
“It’s heartbreaking to say, ‘He was a really good father and really loved his family very much – like a lot,'” said his brother-in-law, James Harrill.
Alex Kliner leaves behind three young children. Image: Mary Rems/AP
The eight-year U.S. Air Force veteran from Birmingham, Alabama, has moved into a new home with his family, his wife Libby Klinner said in a social media post.
Tyler Simmons, of Columbus, Ohio, was also on the plane, his mother, Cheryl Simmons, confirmed.
Mr Simmons had a smile that could “light up any room”, his family said. Image: National Guard/AP
An umbrella group of Iranian proxies in Iraq known as the Islamic Resistance claimed responsibility for downing the plane but US officials insisted it was “not due to hostile fire or friendly fire”.
According to US Central Command, the aircraft was in “friendly” airspace when an unspecified incident involving another aircraft occurred, supporting operations against Iran.
Read more from Sky News:
Tehran has responded to the US bombing of Kharg Island
How is the Iran war affecting British bills?
Another plane landed safely, US military officials said.
Mr. Klinner leaves behind 7-month-old twins and a 2-year-old son, Mr. Harrill said.
In a statement obtained by WCMH-TV in Columbus, Mr. Simmons’ family said his “smile would light up any room.”
“His parents, grandparents, family and friends are saddened by the loss of life,” he said.
US KC-135 refueling aircraft. File photo: Reuters
The Pentagon has not yet confirmed the identities of the six, but families began revealing who died on Saturday.
The Ohio Air National Guard’s 121st Air Refueling Wing said in a social media post that three of the dead airmen served in their unit.
“We share in the grief of their loved ones and we must not forget the invaluable contributions these Airmen made to their country and the impact they have had on our organization,” he said.
