TRUSSVILLE, Ala. (WBRC) – An Auburn graduate and Trussville resident was one of six Air Force crew members killed when a refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq.
Trussville Mayor Ben Short said Major Alex Klinner had only recently moved to the area with his family.
“While his time here was short, the loss we feel is no less significant,” Short said. “He was a husband, a father to three young children, and a man who chose a life of service to his country. His commitment to protecting others and serving something greater than himself represents the very best of our nation.”
Klinner graduated from the University of Auburn in 2016 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
“His commitment to serving our nation reflects the courage, character and sense of duty demonstrated by those who choose a life of service,” the university said in a statement released on social media.
Klinner was one of six crewman aboard a KC-135 refueling aircraft that crashed in Iraq Thursday while supporting operations against Iran.
Pentagon officials said Friday that the crash followed an incident involving another aircraft in western Iraq.
The other plane landed safely.
In total, six airmen died, the Pentagon confirmed.
“Today, our hearts break for the families who now face an unimaginable loss,” Mayor Short said. “Spouses, children, parents, and loved ones are grieving the loss of those who meant the world to them. No words can fully ease the pain they are experiencing, but they will not face it alone.”
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