On December 13, 2025, Iowa lost two of its own when Iowa National Guard Staff Sergeants Edgar Torres-Tovar and William “Nate” Howard were killed in a cowardly ISIS attack in Syria while serving our country.
They deployed with a clear mission: partner with local forces and dismantle the ISIS network responsible for attacks on American lives. They understood the risks and accepted them willingly — because that’s what Guardsmen do.
As a Colonel in the Iowa Air National Guard, I’ve taken that same oath. I know the weight it carries. It was one of the greatest honors of my life to stand beside their families at Dover Air Force Base for the dignified transfer and witness a grateful nation receive them home.
President Trump ordered Operation Hawkeye Strike to eliminate the ISIS terrorists responsible — and justice was delivered. But for the families who folded those flags and said goodbye, justice alone will never fill the space left behind.
How Iowa remembers: I joined Senator Ernst and the entire Iowa delegation to introduce the Iowa National Guard Heroes Commemoration Act, legislation to rename the VA facilities in Des Moines and Marshalltown in honor of Staff Sgts. Torres-Tovar and Howard — a permanent reminder of their sacrifice and service to our nation.
And on Tuesday, as the President delivers the State of the Union, I will host Sgt. Torres-Tovar’s parents in Washington to ensure their son’s service is recognized at the highest level and that Iowa’s gratitude is unmistakable.
Bottom Line: We can never repay what Edgar and Nate gave. But we can honor their sacrifice, stand with their families, and keep faith with every servicemember who raises their right hand to defend the United States.