Last night, a son of Iowa was honored in Washington.Â
Staff Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar of Des Moines served his community, his state, and his nation with pride. He was a loyal friend, a fierce warrior, and a beloved son who gave his life in service to his nation on December 13, 2025.
I had the privilege of hosting Edgar’s parents, Hugo and Isabel, as my guests for the State of the Union. Edgar had dreamed of visiting Washington, D.C. with his family when he returned home from deployment. Last night, they made that trip for him — carrying his memory into that chamber in his place.
As I looked up to the House gallery last night, I watched Hugo and Isabel carry themselves with the same quiet strength their son was known for. For a moment, the noise of Washington faded. It wasn’t about party or politics. It was about a Gold Star family from Iowa, the son they raised to serve his country, and the gratitude of the American people.
Nothing can fill the space Edgar left behind. Isabel and Hugo know that better than anyone. But it matters that we honor them — just as we honor the family of Staff Sergeant William “Nate” Howard of Marshalltown, and every Iowa family who has given so much for our freedom.
Bottom Line: Edgar and Nate gave everything. Hosting their families at the State of the Union — making sure their sacrifice had a seat in that chamber — that’s a moment Iowa won’t forget.