Two Iowa National Guard Soldiers Killed in ISIS Attack in Syria Identified
DES MOINES, Iowa — Two members of the Iowa National Guard, Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, were killed Saturday in an ISIS attack near Palmyra, Syria, officials confirmed Monday. The soldiers were part of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, deployed as part of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division, supporting Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S.-led mission to advise and assist partner forces combating ISIS in the region.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth issued a heartfelt statement urging Americans to pray for the fallen soldiers and their families, while vowing that the United States will respond with overwhelming force. “Please join me in prayer today for the souls of our brave Army Soldiers Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, who were killed by Islamic terrorists in Syria this past weekend,” Hegseth said. “Our hearts go out to their families, and we lift them up in prayer for strength and comfort during this time of grief.”
The Iowa National Guard confirmed the deaths under Department of War casualty release authority, emphasizing the soldiers’ dedication and sacrifice. Sgt. Howard, 29, hailed from Marshalltown, Iowa, while Sgt. Torres Tovar, 25, was from Grimes, Iowa. Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, described them as “dedicated professionals and cherished members of our Guard family who represented the best of Iowa.”
In addition to the two fatalities, three other Iowa National Guard soldiers were wounded in the attack. Two were medically evacuated and are reported to be in stable condition, while a third was treated locally and is in good condition. Their names have not been released in accordance with Department of War policy.
The attack occurred during a “key leader engagement,” a mission critical to ongoing efforts to stabilize the region and counter terrorist threats. A civilian interpreter accompanying the soldiers was also killed, and the attacker was neutralized by U.S. forces.
This tragic event highlights the continuing dangers faced by American troops deployed in volatile areas overseas. The Department of War’s official casualty announcements and the Iowa National Guard’s statements underscore the somber reality of the ongoing conflict with ISIS.
Secretary Hegseth’s call for a robust response aligns with broader U.S. military strategy to decisively counter terrorism threats. The Department of Defense has repeatedly emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure on ISIS and similar groups to prevent resurgence.
As the nation mourns the loss of Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torres Tovar, support networks are mobilizing to assist their families and comrades. The Iowa National Guard has pledged unwavering support to the families during this difficult time, ensuring the legacy of the fallen soldiers endures.
For more information on the U.S. military’s ongoing operations against ISIS and the Department of War’s casualty policies, visit the Department of Defense and National Guard Bureau websites.
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