Nunn Leads House Moment of Silence Honoring Fallen Iowa Guardsmen

The attack also wounded three additional Iowa Guardsmen and claimed the life of U.S. interpreter Ayad Sakat. These deaths mark the first U.S. combat fatalities in Syria since 2019.

Rep. Nunn's Remarks as Prepared for Delivery:

"I rise today to honor two brave Iowans-Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar of Des Moines and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard of Marshalltown-who gave their lives in service to our country.

"On December 13th, while serving with the Iowa National Guard in Syria, Edgar and Nate were killed in an attack by an ISIS terrorist. Three other Guardsmen were wounded. U.S. interpreter Ayad Sakat was also killed. This was the first combat loss of American troops in Syria in over five years-and every American grieves alongside the families of the fallen.

"Edgar, just 25, was the first in his family to serve. He was full of energy, known for putting service before self, and just months from coming home. Nate was 29, a man of faith, a loving husband, and a Guardsman with over a decade of service. He led by example-first in, last out, never leaving a brother behind. They were young men who could have chosen easier paths, but instead chose service. They stood their post when it mattered most. They carried the weight of our nation's safety on their shoulders-and they did so with courage, humility, and honor.

"In return, we give them our gratitude-not just in words, but in remembrance and the solemn promise that justice will be served. Out of grief, we renew our resolve. Out of loss, we strengthen our unity. And out of sacrifice, we carry forward hope-hope grounded in the values Edgar and Nate lived every day: service before self, faith in something greater, and love of country.

"Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that the House now observe a moment of silence in honor of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard."

About the Guardsmen

Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sergeant William Nathaniel "Nate" Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, served with the Iowa National Guard's 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment. Both were deployed to Syria as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, a U.S.-led mission to train and advise local coalition forces.

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