6 U.S. Service Members Die in Iraq Plane Crash

0:00On March 15th, here's the latest in global news. Six U.S. service members died this week, when they're refueling plane crash in Western Iraq during a combat support mission. The KC-135 Shraddotanker went down in friendly airspace while helping operations against Iran, and officials say it was not caused by enemy, fire. The other aircraft involved landed safely, but all six aboard the tank are perished. The Pentagon has not released the full list of names yet, but families confirmed two victims, three of the dead were from the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing based in Columbus. Alex Cleaner, a 33-year-old from Alabama, had just been promoted to major in January and deployed less than a week before the crash. The eight-year Air Force veteran leaves behind his wife and three young children, including seven-month-old twins and a two-year-old son. His family describe him as a devoted father, who loved the outdoors and helping others. Sergeant Tyler Simmons from Ohio was also killed.

1:01His loved ones remembered his bright smile and strong presence that lit up any room. His mother is now arranging funeral plans amid the deep grief. The crash is under investigation by U.S. Central Command. These tankers have served for over 60 years, keeping other planes in the air for long missions, and the Air Force operates hundreds of them across. Active duty in guard units. CNN is brought to you by our sponsor link in the description. Your pillow just got smarter. It plays your podcast and music, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.