Colleagues and loved ones are remembering US Air Force Capt. Ariana Savino as a passionate aviator and role model after the Covington native was killed in a military aircraft crash in Iraq.
Savino, 31, was one of six airmen aboard a KC-135 Stratotanker that crashed March 12 in western Iraq while supporting US military operations tied to the conflict with Iran, according to the Department of Defense.
Military officials said the refueling aircraft went down in what US Central Command described as “friendly airspace” following an incident involving two aircraft. All six crew members aboard the tanker were killed.
“Flying Was Her Greatest Passion”
Savino’s family said aviation had been the defining passion of her life.
“We take comfort in knowing that Ariana died doing the one thing she loved the most—flying,” her family said in a statement shared with media. “Her smile would brighten every room she walked into, and her energy and laughter were nothing short of contagious.”
They described Savino as “fierce, brave, passionate,” and someone deeply loved by everyone she encountered.
Savino commissioned as an officer in the US Air Force in 2017 after graduating from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps program at Central Washington University.
She was promoted to captain in 2021 and served at bases in Georgia and Mississippi during her career. Savino logged more than 300 combat flight hours, according to her family.
Before flying the KC-135 refueling aircraft, Savino served as a navigator aboard the E-8 Joint STARS surveillance aircraft.
Her family said she also worked to inspire others — particularly young people pursuing aviation.
“She made it her mission to be a role model for not only her brothers and sisters who served alongside her, but also the next generation of youth, women, and minorities with their hearts set on a career in aviation,” the family said.
Community And Friends Remember Her
Those who knew Savino during her school years in Covington say her determination and positivity left a lasting impression.
Kierstyn Peterson, who trained alongside Savino in Junior ROTC at Kentwood High School, said Savino was someone others naturally looked up to.
“When we were in ROTC, she was somebody that, she may have been younger, but I did look up to her a lot as an inspiration,” Peterson said.
Peterson said Savino had a strong drive to succeed and encouraged others to do the same. “She most definitely was someone who made an impact; she will leave footsteps on your heart, that’s for sure.”
Peterson also said Savino often spoke proudly about her Puerto Rican heritage and family traditions. “She was very, very proud of being Puerto Rican.”
Savino is survived by her parents, Darren and Omayra; her sister, Kelaia; her brother, Zevin; and her dogs Zoey and Piper, according to family members.
Scholarship Planned In Her Honor
Savino’s family said they plan to establish an aviation scholarship in her honor to support women and Latino youth pursuing careers in aviation.
A GoFundMe campaign organized by Savino’s coworkers and friends has already raised more than $62,000 as of Monday, March 16.
Organizers said the funds will help support Savino’s family and assist in creating the scholarship.
“Any donation or share is appreciated to keep Ariana’s honor and memory alive,” organizers wrote.
Leaders Offer Condolences
Washington leaders also paid tribute to Savino following the crash.
“I am heartbroken to learn about the passing of Capt. Ariana G. Savino from Washington state,” US Sen. Patty Murray said.
“Our servicemembers put their lives on the line to keep our country safe—remarkable women like Capt. Savino represent the absolute best of our state and country,” Murray said.
Rep. Kim Schrier said Savino’s death is a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. “Ariana chose a life of service for which I am profoundly grateful,” Schrier said.
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