Aussie Mom’s Grief: National Guard Son, 28, Among Six US Fatalities in Iraq Crash

Ohio Air Force Soldier Among Six Killed in Iraq Refueling Plane Crash

A 28-year-old soldier from Ohio, Tyler Simmons, is among the six US service members who tragically lost their lives when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq earlier this week. The incident occurred on Thursday, with authorities confirming the crash took place in “friendly airspace” and was not a result of hostile fire, amidst the ongoing conflict in the region. Simmons was one of three National Guard Airmen from Ohio on board the doomed aircraft.

The devastating news reached Simmons’ family with heartbreaking finality. His mother, Cheryl Simmons, recounted the moment uniformed officers arrived at their home to deliver the news of her only child’s passing. “When he [another relative] opened the door, he said, ‘Oh no,’ and I jumped up and ran in there and they were lined up out on the porch,” she told WBNS 10. Overcome with grief, she expressed her disbelief, covering her face as tears flowed. She shared that her son had once promised to retire from military service and pursue a career as a commercial pilot, a dream that tragically ended with his return in a coffin.

Simmons is being remembered by family and friends for his bright spirit and unwavering loyalty. His cousin, Tracy Peaks, fondly recalled his “million dollar smile,” suggesting it was a reflection of his promising future. “When people see my cousin they’d be like, that smile is gonna take him places and it took him to his dream job,” she remarked. Another family member described him as “truly an amazing man,” who was “loving.” This sentiment was echoed as they detailed his deep affection for his dog, Grayson, his family, and his friends, including Shayna. “He would do anything for you,” they added.

Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Tyler Simmons was an alumnus of Eastmoor Academy. Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther acknowledged Simmons’ proud service in the United States Air Force. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Tyler Simmons, whose life was taken far too soon in a recent accident in Iraq,” Ginther stated on Facebook. “We honor his memory as a true hero who served our country with courage and dedication. Please keep Tyler’s family and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

A former track coach also shared fond memories of Simmons, describing him as a “great young man” who “always had a smile on his face and a huge energy about him.” The coach maintained contact with Simmons after his graduation and expressed pride in watching him mature over the years. He also lamented the circumstances of Simmons’ death, stating, “Ty lost his life in yet another pointless war. My heart aches for the Simmons family.” The coach further expressed pride in Simmons’ achievements in the Air Force as a refueling pilot, but even more so in his personal growth, noting his dedication to improving his health and future.

State Representative Latyna M Humphrey also took to Facebook to express her sorrow and solidarity with the community. “Tyler Simmons was one of us. A son of Columbus. A graduate of Eastmoor Academy,” she wrote. “A proud member of the United States Air Force, and a resident of Ohio’s House District 2.” Humphrey emphasized the collective grief felt by the Eastmoor community and highlighted the significance of Simmons’ service. “When someone from our neighborhood answers the call to serve, they carry all of us with them – our streets, our schools, our hopes and our pride. Tyler served with courage and dedication. That service deserves our deepest gratitude and respect.”

The 121st Air Refueling Wing, Simmons’ unit, shared the tragic news with a heavy heart. “It is with a heavy heart that we share the tragic news of the passing of three Airmen from the 121st Air Refueling Wing,” the unit posted on Facebook. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and fellow Airmen who mourn their loss.” The post continued, “We share in the sorrow of their loved ones, and we must not forget the valuable contributions these Airmen made to their country and the impact they have left on our organization. Additionally, we ask that you respect the family’s wishes and provide them with space to mourn their loved ones during this difficult time.”

Governor Mike DeWine and his wife Fran expressed their deep sadness and offered condolences to the families of the fallen service members. Ohio Senator Jon Husted also shared his heartbreak on X, acknowledging the loss of the six National Guard Airmen, including the three from Ohio. “These heroes paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country—putting the safety and security of their fellow Americans above themselves,” Husted stated. “We will always remember these service members’ noble mission to protect the homeland and the sacred freedom of America….As our service members continue to carry the flag of freedom around the globe, may they continue the righteous mission for which these heroes paid the ultimate sacrifice. God bless our troops.”

US Central Command confirmed the KC-135 refueling plane’s crash occurred in “friendly airspace,” and that a second aircraft involved in the incident managed to land safely. The identities of the other service members who perished in the crash have not yet been released.