Tech Sgt. Ashley Pruitt of Bardstown was killed in an aircraft crash in Western Iraq as part of a mission supporting operations in Iran. The 34-year-old with the 6th Air Refueling Wing was one of six service members who perished in the crash, which remains under investigation.
In a social media post, Gov. Andy Beshear said he was saddened to hear of the news and called both Pruitt and Sgt. Bejamin Pennington — another Kentuckian lost as a result of Operation Epic Fury — "two American heroes who called our commonwealth home."
I am sad to share that Tech. Sgt. Ashley Pruitt of Bardstown was one of the six service members killed in an aircraft crash in Iraq. 1/2
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) March 15, 2026
U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie, whose district includes Bardstown, wrote that the commonwealth is "forever grateful" for Pruitt's sacrifice.
U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey wrote that his "heart is heavy" and his prayers are with Pruitt's loved ones.
Pruitt had served in the Air Force since 2017.