‘A really good dad’: Father of three among 6 killed in KC-135 refueling crash over Iraq
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA: Major Alex Klinner, a 33-year-old father of three, was identified as one of six service members killed in the crash of a KC-135 refueling tanker in western Iraq.
The seven-year pilot had been deployed less than a week ago to support Operation Epic Fury when his KC-135 crashed over a "friendly airspace."
Family mourns Major Alex Klinner's death
Major Alex Klinner was a Birmingham resident who loved the outdoors and hiking, but his greatest joy was his family.
He is survived by his wife, Libby, their 2-year-old son, and 7-month-old twins.
His brother-in-law, James Harrill, shared on Saturday, March 13, how much the pilot adored his children, saying, “It’s kind of heartbreaking to say: He was just a really good dad and really loved his family a lot – like a lot.”
The Auburn University graduate was known for his "servant leadership" and had been promoted to major in January.
His wife expressed her deep sadness that their three young children would not grow up with their father’s guidance.
In a social media post, she wrote, “They won’t get to see firsthand the way he would jump up to help in any way he could.”
She continued, “They won’t see how goofy and funny he was. They won’t witness his selflessness, the way he thought about everyone else before himself. They won’t get to feel the deep love he had for them.”
GoFundme set up to help Klinner family
The community has rallied around the family, raising over $869,246 through a GoFundMe page, with a large $80,000 donation coming from billionaire William Ackman.
Those who knew Klinner described him as a steady and gentle soul, with Harrill noting, “Alex was one of those guys that had this steady command about him,” and “He was literally one of the most kindest, giving people.”
US Central Command confirms event unfolded in friendly airspace
The crash involved two KC-135 Stratotanker planes, but the second aircraft landed safely.
CENTCOM confirmed that the tragedy was an accident and not caused by enemy attacks, stating, “The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing.”
U.S. Central Command is aware of the loss of a U.S. KC-135 refueling aircraft. The incident occurred in friendly airspace during Operation Epic Fury, and rescue efforts are ongoing. Two aircraft were involved in the incident. One of the aircraft went down in western Iraq, and the…
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) March 12, 2026
They further clarified, “This was not due to hostile fire or friendly fire.” This incident adds to a growing number of casualties in the region, with 13 service members killed and many others wounded since late February.
