Captain Ariana Savino, Devoted Air Force Officer and Beloved Family Member, Dies in KC-135 Stratotanker Crash While Supporting a Mission in Western Iraq
Captain Ariana Savino died on March 12, 2026, when a KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in western Iraq during support for Operation Epic Fury.
Savino had served in the United States Air Force since September 2017 and first worked as a navigator on the E-8 JSTAR aircraft before later flying the KC-135.
Family, friends, and fellow supporters remember Savino as a dependable leader who cared deeply for fellow Airmen and remained a devoted sibling, child, and loyal friend.
The fundraiser created by Kelcie Edwards says Savino’s smile will live on and notes that donations will help support parents Darren and Omayra, siblings Kelaia and Zevin, and beloved dogs Zoey and Piper.
The campaign has also drawn support from donors who want to honor Savino’s memory and help the family with funeral and living expenses during this painful time.
Memorial service details have not yet been announced, and the family is expected to share obituary and funeral information soon.
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