Gov. Kay Ivey issued a directive on March 17 for flags to be lowered on the day of interment for Maj. John A. Klinner, an Alabama native, Auburn graduate and one of six killed in a plane crash in Iraq.
In her newest directive, Ivey announced that flags will be lowered on March 30.
"To honor these brave Airmen who gave their lives in service to our country, I am directing all flags to be lowered from sunrise until sunset on Monday, March 30, 2026, the day of funeral services for Alabama native Major John A. Klinner," the directive said.
As of March 17, the GoFundMe for Klinner's family has raised $1.4M out of the $1.5M goal. The organizer, Sarah Rose Harrill, Klinner's sister-in-law, posted an update.
"We simply want to say thank you. The outpouring of love and generosity from the American people and the global community has been overwhelming. Every donation, message, prayer, and share has reminded us that we are not walking through this alone. Your support means the world to our family as Libby and the kids navigate the days ahead," Harrill said. "We also want to acknowledge that Alex was one of six heroes lost in this tragedy. If you feel moved to do so, please consider supporting the other families who are also navigating unimaginable loss. We’ve included links to their fundraisers below. Thank you for standing with our family, honoring Alex’s life, and reminding us that even in the darkest moments, love shines through."
Harrill also shared GoFundMe pages for the other five individuals killed in the crash.
Tech Sgt. Ashley B. Pruitt's family, has a goal of $210,000 and donators have raised $188,400. Capt. Ariana G. Savino's family has a goal of $120,000 with $99,500 raised. A portion of funds from Savino's fund will go to establish a scholarship that supports Latina women in aviation.
Capt. Curtis Angst's fund has a goal of $140,000 with $130,200 donated, these funds will go to his widow. Finally, Capt. Seth Koval’s fund has a goal of $250,000 with $239,000 donated. Donations from both Angst and Koval's funds will go to support their widows and families.
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Brychelle Brooks, senior majoring in public and professional writing with a minor in information systems, has been with The Auburn Plainsman since August 2023. She previously served as the Campus Reporter, Opinion Editor and Newsletter Editor. She is currently serving as the Editor-in-Chief.
