Two US Soldiers Killed in Syria Identified
The identities of two American soldiers who lost their lives in an attack by Islamic terrorists in Syria have been made public, leading to a surge of prayers and a commitment from Army Secretary Pete Hegseth that the U.S. will retaliate.
Sergeant Hegseth urged the public to pray for the deceased soldiers, Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, whose names were announced by the War Department on Monday.
“Please join me in praying for the souls of these brave soldiers, Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, who were tragically killed last weekend,” Hegseth stated. “Our thoughts are with their families during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Iowa National Guard confirmed that the soldiers were killed in enemy fire near Palmyra, Syria, on Saturday, December 13, according to information from the Department of the Army.
Howard, 29, from Marshalltown, Iowa, and Torres Tovar, 25, from Grimes, Iowa, were part of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, deployed in the Middle East as part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, a U.S.-led effort aimed at assisting local forces in the fight against ISIS.
“We remember and honor the sacrifice of Sergeants Howard and Torres Tovar,” remarked Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard. “They represented Iowa with dignity and were valued members of our community. Our priority now is to support their families through this unimaginable time.”
Three other Iowa National Guard members sustained injuries during the incident; two were treated and evacuated, while one received local care and is reported to be in good condition. Their identities have not been released in compliance with Department of the Army policy.
Officials noted that the soldiers and civilian translators were engaged in discussions with local leaders supporting the ongoing operation against ISIS when the attack occurred. Early assessments suggest that ISIS-affiliated gunmen, operating outside areas governed by the Syrian Transitional Authority, were responsible.
Meskwaki Police Chief Jeffrey Bunn publicly recognized his son, Sgt. William Nathaniel “Nate” Howard, and shared his pride in his dedication, stating he always put others first.
“Pray for our soldiers all over this harsh world,” Bunn wrote. “I will see you again, son—until then, we keep living.”
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff to honor these soldiers as Iowans mourn their loss.
“Sgt. Howard and Torres Tovar served our country honorably and made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Reynolds. “My husband and I extend our prayers and condolences to their families, urging all Iowans to unite in supporting them during this trying period.”
Hegseth emphasized that the sacrifices of these fallen soldiers will not be forgotten.
“The United States will respond decisively to avenge their deaths,” he affirmed. “Their legacy will endure through my continued dedication to their families and comrades in arms.”
