In the wake of unimaginable loss, we are coming together to support our dear friend Mary Angst and to honor the life and legacy of her husband, Captain Curtis Angst.

Curtis tragically lost his life while serving as a KC-135 pilot in support of Operation Epic Fury. He was doing what he loved most — flying and serving alongside the men and women he cared so deeply about.

Captain Curtis Angst lived a life defined by service, generosity, and a genuine love for people. Those who knew Curtis remember his steady kindness, the way he was always ready to help someone else before himself, and the joy he carried with him everywhere he went. His smile was constant, and his laugh was one of those that people instantly recognized and loved being around. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and part of something bigger.

Curtis cared deeply about the people he served beside. He stayed connected with friends across units, including the 123rd Air Control Squadron, and loved encouraging others to stay involved in the flying community that meant so much to him. Serving his country was something he believed in deeply, but what he treasured most were the people he had the privilege to serve with.

To Mary, Curtis was a devoted husband and partner in every sense of the word. Their life together was built on love, loyalty, and a shared instinct to show up for others. Many of us experienced that firsthand — they were simply the kind of people who stepped in when someone needed help, no questions asked.

Mary has also been a steady and caring presence within the 121st Operations Group spouse community. As part of the Key Spouse team, she has been someone many families could turn to for encouragement, understanding, and connection through the ups and downs of military life. Whether helping welcome new spouses, supporting families through deployments, or quietly checking in on someone who needed it, Mary has played a meaningful role in caring for this community.

Now it is our turn to surround her.

This fundraiser will help support Mary in the months ahead as she navigates life after this devastating loss, easing some of the financial and practical burdens that inevitably follow while giving her space to grieve and heal.

Curtis lived a life of service — to his country, to his fellow airmen, and to the people he loved. One of the most meaningful ways we can honor that life is by showing the same care and support to Mary now.

If you feel moved to give, please know that no amount is too small. Each contribution is simply another reminder to Mary that she is surrounded by people who care deeply about her and about the man Curtis was.

Most of all, we hope this effort reflects the very thing Curtis lived every day — that when one of us is carrying something heavy, the rest of us step in to help carry it together.