This weekend, Iowa — and our nation — was shaken by heartbreaking news. A terrorist attack in Syria claimed the lives of two Iowa National Guard soldiers and a U.S. interpreter supporting their mission, and left three others wounded.
These brave Americans were serving on the front lines of Operation Inherent Resolve, defending our homeland and fighting ISIS terrorists. They stepped forward knowing the risks — guided by courage, honor, and an unwavering love of country.
I joined KCCI this weekend to honor the lives of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres Tovar of Des Moines and Sergeant William Nathanial Howard of Marshalltown — two Iowa National Guardsmen who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. ⬇️
Let me be clear: We grieve with every family impacted by this senseless, cowardly attack, and we honor the bravery of all who continue to stand the watch to protect freedom. Words alone can never ease this loss — but our response must be clear and decisive.
Over the weekend, I spoke with President Trump to urge an overwhelming show of force and the swift delivery of justice — not only for the families of the fallen, but to protect the nearly 2,000 Iowa Guardsmen who remain deployed.
Bottom Line: Iowa mourns with the families of our fallen and wounded Guardsmen — but our resolve remains unshaken. We will honor their sacrifice, defend our servicemembers, and ensure every Iowa Guardsman has the support of our nation.