U.S. Military Identifies Two Iowa National Guard Soldiers Killed in Syria

On Saturday, the U.S. military disclosed the names of two Iowa National Guard soldiers who lost their lives in what is believed to be an ISIS attack in Syria.

The fallen soldiers were identified as Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres Tovar, 25, from Des Moines, Iowa, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, from Marshalltown, Iowa. This information was confirmed in a report released on Monday. Additionally, a civilian interpreter lost their life, and three other members of the Iowa National Guard were injured.

Both soldiers died as a result of “injuries sustained during an engagement with hostile forces,” according to the official statement.

Military operations were focused on “key leadership engagements” aimed at supporting counterterrorism efforts in the region, as stated by Pentagon Chief Press Secretary Sean Parnell.

According to an Army press release, the Guards were participating in Operation-specific solutions, part of a broader mission to combat ISIS and other terrorist organizations in Syria and Iraq.

Parnell noted that the soldiers’ names were withheld until 24 hours after their families had been informed.

In response to the attack, President Donald Trump remarked, “This is an ISIS attack on the United States and in Syria, a very dangerous area where ISIS is trying to regain control.” He added that the Syrian President, Ahmed al-Shalah, was deeply angered by the incident and promised there would be serious retaliation.

Following the tragic news, Republican Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her sorrow, saying, “Our hearts are heavy today. Our prayers and deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of our fallen soldiers. We ask all Iowans to come together to support them and lift them up in prayer during this incredibly difficult time. Please also pray for the speedy and full recovery of our wounded soldiers.”