Two American soldiers died in a weekend attack in Syria. An ISIS-affiliated gunman carried out the assault near Palmyra. The Department of War identified the fallen soldiers on Monday. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth then called for national prayers. He also pledged a forceful American military response. The nation now focuses on these fallen soldiers honored.
Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard was twenty-nine years old. He called Marshalltown, Iowa, his hometown. Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres Tovar was twenty-five years old. He hailed from Grimes, Iowa. Moreover, both men served in the Iowa National Guard. Their unit supported Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIS. The attack also killed a civilian interpreter during a meeting. Three additional soldiers suffered wounds in the incident.
Secretary Hegseth issued a strong public statement. He asked all Americans to pray for the soldiers. He extended heartfelt condolences to their grieving families. Hegseth then promised the sacrifice would not be unanswered. Consequently, the United States will respond with overwhelming force. The entire nation remembers these fallen soldiers honored.
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags to half-staff. She said the state mourns their profound sacrifice. The adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard also spoke. He called both men dedicated professionals and cherished members. The military community now must support their families fully. Therefore, their legacy of service will remain forever.
The soldiers conducted a key leader engagement before the attack. This key meeting supported ongoing counter-ISIS operations locally. Initial assessments indicate a lone ISIS gunman executed the assault. The attacker then was quickly killed after the violence. Officials confirmed the area lacked stable interim authority control.
A father publicly mourned his son, Sergeant Howard, online. The Meskwaki Nation Police Chief shared a heartfelt message. He described his son as a devoted service member proudly. The chief also asked for prayers for all soldiers deployed. The community gathers to support these fallen soldiers honored.
Secretary Hegseth reaffirmed his commitment to all warfighters globally. He vowed to continue the mission against terrorism persistently. The soldiers’ memory will live on through their families. Their fellow warriors will also carry their legacy forward. America now grieves this tragic loss in Syria.
