Trump Declines Comment on Deceased Service Members
Donald Trump declined to comment on the deaths of six U.S. service members killed in Iran, drawing criticism amid ongoing conflict.
Lauren Collins ·
Former U.S. President Donald Trump declined to comment on the deaths of six American service members during a press interaction aboard Air Force One on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
The service members died on Thursday, March 12, 2026, when an Air Force refueling aircraft crashed while supporting military operations in Iran. The Pentagon identified the deceased as Major Alex Klinner, Tech Sergeant Tyler Simmons, Captain Ariana G.
Savino, Tech Sergeant Ashley B. Pruitt, Captain Seth R.
Background
Koval, and Captain Curtis J. Angst.
During the 20-minute press gaggle, Trump reportedly focused on criticizing media representatives. When asked for a comment on the service members' deaths, he responded with "Who else?" The incident occurred as the total number of American casualties in the ongoing conflict in Iran reached 13. Trump also faced questions regarding the use of his image in a fundraising email depicting him saluting a deceased soldier, which he defended despite claiming not to have seen the specific email.
This event follows criticism from family members of one of the deceased service members, Tech Sgt. Tyler Simmons, who stated his death could have been avoided. Trump maintained that he is highly supportive of the military.