Columbus Airman Remembered as ‘American Hero’ After Fatal KC-135 Crash
Father honors Columbus airman Tyler Simmons, who died with five crew members in KC-135 crash, remembering his son’s lifelong aviation dreams.
COLUMBUS, OHIO — The father of a Columbus airman who died in a military aircraft crash last month remembered his son as “an American hero” during a recent interview, highlighting the young serviceman’s lifelong dream of aviation.
Tyler Simmons, 28, served as a boom operator on a KC-135 refueling plane that crashed on March 12. He died alongside five other crew members, including Captain Seth Koval of Stoutsville and Captain Curtis Angst of Columbus.
All three airmen served with the 121st Air Refueling Wing at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus.
Early Aviation Dreams
Charles Simmons, Tyler Simmons’ father, spoke with WOSU on Thursday about his son’s passion for flying that began in his teenage years. The younger Simmons initially aspired to become a pilot and had the opportunity to help fly an aircraft with former Tuskegee Airman James Yarbrough when he was in ninth grade.
“Father of Columbus airman who died in March crash remembers son as ‘an American hero,'” WOSU’s Mark Ferenchik reported.
Military Service Legacy
The March 12 crash claimed the lives of six crew members total, representing a significant loss for the 121st Air Refueling Wing and the Columbus military community. The KC-135 Stratotanker is a military aerial refueling aircraft used to extend the range and endurance of other aircraft.
Tyler Simmons’ role as a boom operator was essential to the aircraft’s refueling missions, requiring specialized training and expertise in mid-air fuel transfer operations.
Community Impact
The loss of three local servicemembers has deeply affected the Columbus area military community. Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base, located on the city’s south side, serves as home to the 121st Air Refueling Wing and plays a key role in national defense operations.
The crash represents one of the most significant single-incident losses for the Ohio Air National Guard unit in recent memory, affecting families and fellow service members throughout central Ohio.
Charles Simmons’ tribute to his son reflects the pride and grief felt by Gold Star families who have lost loved ones in military service, honoring their sacrifice while processing the profound personal loss.
