It is with deep sorrow and profound gratitude that we remember Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, 34, from Bardstown, Kentucky, who tragically lost her life on March 12, 2026 in the line of duty during a KC-135 Stratotanker crash in western Iraq. The crash, which occurred during a refueling mission as part of Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led military operation against Iran, claimed the lives of six brave U.S. Air Force airmen. Tech Sgt. Pruitt’s loss has left an indelible mark on her family, friends, colleagues, and the entire nation.
In these moments of grief, we remember her not only as a dedicated airman but as a hero, whose sacrifice is a testament to her unwavering commitment to duty, honor, and service to her country. As we reflect on her life, let us also honor her legacy and the immense contribution she made to the safety and security of the United States.
Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt joined the U.S. Air Force and quickly rose to the rank of Tech Sergeant. Throughout her military career, she displayed the traits that would define her service: dedication, precision, and an unwavering sense of duty. Assigned to the 6th Air Refueling Wing at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, she was part of a critical mission of maintaining air superiority and sustaining air support for operations like Operation Epic Fury, aimed at safeguarding global peace and stability.
Her role in the KC-135 Stratotanker missions was essential. The Stratotanker is the backbone of air-to-air refueling, providing critical fuel to aircraft in mid-air to ensure sustained operations during long missions. Pruitt’s work as an air refueling technician was vital for the success of these operations. It is a high-stakes job, requiring impeccable attention to detail and composure under pressure. Pruitt excelled in every task she was given, gaining the respect of her superiors and peers alike.
Her contributions were not only felt on the ground but also in the skies, where her efforts ensured that U.S. aircraft had the resources to complete missions vital to national security.
On March 12, 2026, during a mission tied to Operation Epic Fury, the U.S.-led effort against Iran that began on February 28, 2026, Tech Sgt. Pruitt was part of a refueling operation when the KC-135 Stratotanker tragically crashed in western Iraq. The Pentagon has confirmed that the crash was non-hostile, meaning there was no enemy fire involved. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but the loss of these six airmen is a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by military personnel around the world.
Tech Sgt. Pruitt, along with five fellow airmen, tragically passed away in the crash. Maj. John A. Klinner (33, Auburn, AL), Capt. Ariana G. Savino (31, Covington, WA), Capt. Seth R. Koval (38, Mooresville, IN), Capt. Curtis J. Angst (30, Wilmington, OH), and Tech. Sgt. Tyler H. Simmons (28, Columbus, OH) also lost their lives in the crash, each leaving behind families and communities who mourn their loss.
Tech Sgt. Pruitt’s death follows the loss of another Kentucky hero, Sgt. Benjamin N. Pennington (26, Glendale, KY), who tragically succumbed to injuries on March 8, 2026, from an Iranian strike at Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia. With this, Kentucky saw the loss of two brave soldiers in a short period, both of whom served with immense honor and courage.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear has expressed deep sympathy for the families of Tech Sgt. Pruitt and Sgt. Pennington, calling them “American heroes who called our commonwealth home.” He urged prayers and support for their families, recognizing their monumental sacrifice in serving the nation. Governor Beshear’s words reflect the profound impact Pruitt’s service has had on the state of Kentucky and the nation as a whole.
Though her life was tragically cut short, Tech Sgt. Pruitt’s legacy of bravery, honor, and service will never be forgotten. Her commitment to her country, her unit, and her comrades in arms is a testament to the values that define the very essence of the U.S. military.
Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt’s death is not just the loss of a dedicated airman—it is a painful reminder of the true cost of freedom. The service men and women who give their lives to protect the safety of others face risks that most of us will never know. Their sacrifices allow us to live in peace, knowing that they are doing what it takes to defend our way of life.
As we honor Tech Sgt. Pruitt, we remember her as someone who was not just a military professional, but a sister, a friend, a daughter, and a leader. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones and her fellow airmen, and her legacy will inspire future generations to serve with the same courage, dedication, and selflessness that she did.
As the families of Tech Sgt. Pruitt and the other fallen airmen mourn, their communities stand beside them, offering support, love, and gratitude. In the military community, where bonds are formed through shared experiences and mutual sacrifices, the loss of one of their own is felt by all.
For the people of Bridgeport, the state of Kentucky, and the United States, Tech Sgt. Pruitt’s death serves as a painful reminder of the incredible sacrifice made by our military service members. Yet, it also serves as a testament to the strength of community—one that stands together in times of loss, to honor the heroes who gave everything for their country.
Today, as we remember Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt, we honor her life of service, sacrifice, and love for her country. Her death, like the death of all those who serve, is not in vain. It is a reminder of the commitment and courage that military men and women embody in service to this great nation.
May her memory continue to inspire others to carry the torch of service and honor. To her family, her friends, and her comrades, we offer our deepest condolences and extend our thoughts and prayers. We will never forget her sacrifice, and she will always be remembered as a true American hero.
Rest in peace, Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt. Your service will never be forgotten, and your sacrifice will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and those you served.