Ohio Pays Final Respects to Fallen Airman Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons After Tragic Iraq Mission
COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio community will gather Friday to honor Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, a 28-year-old Airman who lost his life alongside five others during a military operation in Iraq last month. The somber farewell comes weeks after the devastating crash as part of Operation Epic Fury, leaving family, friends, and fellow servicemen grappling with the loss of a dedicated soldier and beloved local hero.
A Hero’s Farewell
Visitation services for Simmons will begin at 9 a.m. Friday at the First Church of God on Refugee Road, followed by a homegoing service at 11 a.m. Military honors will be rendered between 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., with a processional to Union Cemetery scheduled for 1:45 p.m. The service will be streamed live for those unable to attend in person.
Simmons, a Columbus native, enlisted in the Air Force in 2017 and later joined the 166th Air Refueling Squadron in 2023. His bravery and service earned him a posthumous promotion to Master Sergeant, a rank reflecting his leadership and sacrifice.
A Legacy of Service
Throughout his military career, Simmons was deployed three times in support of U.S. Central Command, participating in critical operations including Freedom Sentinel, Spartan Shield, Inherent Resolve, Deliberate Resolve, and Epic Fury. He logged over 200 combat hours, demonstrating unwavering commitment to his country.
His dedication earned him numerous accolades, including:
- Air Force Commendation Medal
- Air Reserve Force Meritorious Service Medal
- Global War on Terrorism Service and Expeditionary Medals
- Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal
- National Defense Service Medal
A Life Remembered
Those who knew Simmons describe him as a man with an infectious laugh, boundless ambition, and deep patriotism. His father, Mylo Simmons, recalled a heartbreaking final conversation before his son’s deployment.
“Before he left, he said, ‘Dad, I don’t think I’m going to make it back from this one,’” Mylo shared in an emotional interview. “I told him, ‘Yes, you are.’ But when the Air Force officers came to my door that night, I knew. It’s every parent’s worst nightmare.”
Simmons’ passion for aviation was nurtured early at Berwick Alternative Elementary, where he dreamed of becoming a pilot. The school recently held a memorial in his honor, celebrating the impact he left on his community.
“He loved his job, he loved the Air Force, he loved his country,” Mylo said. “He’d always ask, ‘Dad, are you proud of me?’ And I always was.”
A Shared Loss
Simmons was one of three Ohio Airmen killed in the crash, alongside Capt. Seth Koval and Capt. Curtis Angst. Their deaths have left a void in the military community, with tributes pouring in from across the state.
As Ohio prepares to bid farewell to Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons, his legacy of courage, kindness, and dedication will endure—not just in the medals he earned, but in the lives he touched.
— Reported by Nexio News
