Honoring a Fallen Alumnus of Buckeye Boys State

The American Legion Buckeye Boys State program solemnly honors the life and service of Captain Curtis Angst, a distinguished alumnus of The American Legion Buckeye Boys State and honored member of the Ohio Air National Guard based at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus. Captain Angst was one of six joint USAF–Air National Guard flight crew members who gave their lives on March 6, 2026 in the crash of their KC‑135 air refueling tanker during “Operation Epic Fury”, answering the call of duty with unwavering courage.

A delegate to Buckeye Boys State in 2013, sponsored by American Legion Wilmington Post 49, Captain Angst exemplified the values our program strives to instill—leadership, integrity, and service above self. As a KC‑135 pilot with the 166th Air Refueling Squadron of the 121st Air Refueling Wing, he carried those values into his military career, serving his nation with exceptional skill, humility, and dedication.

The American Legion Buckeye Boys State staff and ALBBS class of 2013 are profoundly grateful for having known Curtis Angst and for the steadfast commitment he demonstrated in the service of others. His legacy stands as a powerful reminder of the character and courage embodied by those who choose to serve. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and all those who loved him.

Captain Curtis Angst, along with other Buckeye Boys State alumni who have made the supreme sacrifice for our nation, will be honored during the annual Memorial Service at the 2026 American Legion Buckeye Boys State program. Their devotion to duty and their enduring example of heroism will forever remain in our hearts.