Floor SpeechNeutral2026-04-14

HONORING MAJOR ALEX KLINNER

Context

On 2026-04-14, Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING MAJOR ALEX KLINNER" in the Senate. It referenced legislation: S1736.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S1736] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MAJOR ALEX KLINNER Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, on March 12, 2026, Alabama lost a hero: Air Force Maj. Alex Klinner, 33. Alex was killed during a refueling mission in support of Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East. He was a part of the historic 99th Air Refueling Squadron based at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base in Birmingham, AL. His death is a tragic reminder that freedom isn't free, and we all have our brave servicemen and -women to thank for the freedom that makes our country so special. Alex was an Auburn native and a 2016 graduate of Auburn University. He entered the Air Force through Air Force Reserve Officer Training from Auburn University in 2017. He deployed four times from 2019-2026, flying 362 combat hours and 181 combat support hours in theater. Alex leaves behind a legacy of fierce loyalty both to our country and to his family. Those around him knew him as a ``servant leader'' and a ``helper,'' who went to great lengths to care for his loved ones. As impressive as his pilot skills were, he shined brightest when surrounded by his family: his wife Libby and their three young children. His deep faith kept him rooted and focused on what really matters in this life. He truly embodied the Christian call to ``walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.'' Alabama has rallied behind the Klinner family in the wake of this unimaginable loss. Suzanne and I will continue praying for them during this difficult time. I was honored to attend the dignified transfer for Alex and the other servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Alex's legacy will endure. He made Alabama proud, and we will always remember his service and sacrifice. ____________________

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HONORING MAJOR ALEX KLINNER Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 65 (Tuesday, April 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S1736] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING MAJOR ALEX KLINNER Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, on March 12, 2026, Alabama lost a hero: Air Force Maj. Alex Klinner, 33. Alex was killed during a refueling mission in support of Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East. He was a part of the historic 99th Air Refueling Squadron based at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base in Birmingham, AL. His death is a tragic reminder that freedom isn't free, and we all have our brave servicemen and -women to thank for the freedom that makes our country so special. Alex was an Auburn native and a 2016 graduate of Auburn University. He entered the Air Force through Air Force Reserve Officer Training from Auburn University in 2017. He deployed four times from 2019-2026, flying 362 combat hours and 181 combat support hours in theater. Alex leaves behind a legacy of fierce loyalty both to our country and to his family. Those around him knew him as a ``servant leader'' and a ``helper,'' who went to great lengths to care for his loved ones. As impressive as his pilot skills were, he shined brightest when surrounded by his family: his wife Libby and their three young children. His deep faith kept him rooted and focused on what really matters in this life. He truly embodied the Christian call to ``walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.'' Alabama has rallied behind the Klinner family in the wake of this unimaginable loss. Suzanne and I will continue praying for them during this difficult time. I was honored to attend the dignified transfer for Alex and the other servicemembers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Alex's legacy will endure. He made Alabama proud, and we will always remember his service and sacrifice. ____________________