An Auburn University alumnus is one of six killed in a crash involving two U.S. military KC-135 refueling aircrafts in Iraq on March 12. Air Force Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, graduated from the University in 2016 with a degree in mechanical engineering.
In a statement released on March 14, Auburn University said “His commitment to serving our nation reflects the courage, character and sense of duty demonstrated by those who choose a life of service.”
Jennifer Adams, vice president for public affairs, communication and marketing, said the statement is on behalf of the University.
According to The Washington Post, KC-135 refueling runs took off from Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. One of the planes did not return to the airport. A separate KC-135 entered Israeli airspace at 7:15 p.m. local time, and later transmitted emergency signals and circled the coastline until landing at 8:35 p.m.
The U.S. Central Command issued a press release after the crash, saying the incident occurred during Operation Epic Fury, and the other aircraft involved landed safely. The incident was not a result of enemy fire and took place in friendly airspace.
Since the crash, the U.S. death toll from Operation Epic Fury has grown to at least 13 service members. Seven additional service members have been killed during combat.
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Amanda Machamer, junior in journalism, has been with The Auburn Plainsman since Spring 2025. Machamer previously served as a news writer and assistant news editor, and she is currently serving as the assistant content editor.
