Columbus Honors Fallen Airman Tyler Simmons with a Street Sign

By Okon Ekpenyong

At the intersection of South Weyant Avenue and Plymouth Avenue, near Eastmoor Academy, a new street sign honors the life of fallen Ohio Air National Guard airman Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons.

For his father, Mylo Simmons, and his family, the dedication means more than a name on a sign. It reminds him that his son’s legacy lives on through the people he inspired.

Simmons, 28, died on March 12, 2026, when a KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during a mission supporting U.S. military operations against Iran. Six airmen lost their lives, including three members of Ohio’s 121st Air Refueling Wing: Capt. Curtis Angst, 30, of Wilmington; and Capt. Seth Koval, 38, of Stoutsville.

Inside Eastmoor Academy’s gymnasium, where Simmons was a 2015 graduate, students filled the basketball court to hear about Tyler’s life and service from his father, military representatives, Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, and school leaders. As Mylo spoke, students applauded, offering encouragement as he fought back tears while reflecting on his son’s life.

According to his former high school principal and football coach, Simmons played quarterback and ran track. He enlisted in the military three years after graduating from Eastmoore.

Recalling the moment military representatives arrived at his door with the news, Mylo described the grief as surreal and emotionally devastating.

“Some days I couldn’t get out of bed,” he said, describing the painful process of learning to live with the loss. “But still I rise.”

Mylo said his faith in God, community support, and his work as a music teacher have helped him find the strength to keep going. He explained that serving his students and trying to be a positive influence in their lives give him renewed energy during a difficult time.

He also expressed profound gratitude for support from the city, government officials, military representatives, and community members, calling it overwhelming in the best way.

Mayor Ginther praised Tyler’s impact on his hometown, saying, “Tyler actually represented the very best of this community.”

For the students gathered in the gym, the ceremony offered a chance to learn more about the former Eastmoor student whose military service, rapid rise through the ranks, and stories of heroism were shared by those who knew him best. For Tyler’s family, it was also a reminder that they are not alone in their grief.

The dedication of Master Sgt. Tyler Simmons Way is more than just a street sign. It reminded students of the hard work and dedication it took for Tyler to reach the heights of his military career, as well as the many lives he touched along the way.

The dedication celebrates Tyler’s military service and sacrifice while keeping his ties to the community alive. From his father’s emotional remarks to the students’ applause and the street now bearing his name, the ceremony powerfully reminded everyone that Tyler’s legacy lives on through the lives he impacted.

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