U.S. Air Force Maj. John “Alex” Klinner, a proud 2016 Auburn University graduate, is going to be honored in an incredibly powerful way this Saturday: a pregame flyover involving four F-35 Lightning II fighter jets from the 187th Fighter Wing Alabama Air National Guard. This isn’t just any flyover, folks, this is happening right before Auburn football’s major matchup with No. 17 LSU.
Honoring a Life of Service and Sacrifice
Maj. Klinner’s story is one of profound dedication and immense tragedy. He was only 33 years old, a mechanical engineering graduate who committed his life to service. After joining Auburn’s ROTC program, he was commissioned into the USAF in 2017 and served for eight years as an Air Force pilot. He flew KC-135, T-6, and T-1 aircrafts, eventually becoming the Chief of Squadron Standardizations and Evaluations for the 99th Air Refueling Squadron in Birmingham, Alabama. This man was the real deal, deploying four times over seven years.
His life was cut short, devastatingly, when he died in the line of duty on March 30, 2026. His KC-135 plane crashed in Iraq, making him one of six American service members killed in the early stages of Operation Epic Fury. It just rips you up to hear about. Alex was an Auburn native, a 2011 Auburn High School graduate, and a third-generation AU alumnus. He is survived by his wife, Libby Klinner, and three young children, including twins who were just 7 months old at the time of his death.
More Than a Flyover: A Legacy Cemented
The jets roaring over the stadium this Saturday will be piloted by fellow Auburn graduates, which just adds another layer to this poignant tribute. But the honors don’t stop there. During Saturday’s game day festivities, the Klinner family will be on hand for the presentation of a scholarship established in Maj. Klinner’s honor. This scholarship isn’t just a gesture, it is a commitment to supporting future mechanical engineering students at Auburn in Air Force ROTC. It aims to foster students who embody “the excellence, leadership and commitment to service that defined Maj. Klinner.” What an incredible way to keep his spirit alive and inspire the next generation.
The contest itself is scheduled for an 11 a.m. CT kickoff this Saturday, Oct. 24, and you can catch it on ABC.
When Auburn takes the field against No. 17 LSU this Saturday, it’s going to be far more than just a college football game. It’s a profound, emotional moment to remember Maj. Klinner, his incredible service, his ultimate sacrifice, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind for future Auburn students. Prepare for a truly emotional pregame as the Emerald City takes a backseat to this national story.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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