Chuck Grassley Honors Iowa Guardsmen Killed in Syria ISIS Attack

Honoring Fallen Heroes

• 💔 Senator Chuck Grassley delivered remarks on the Senate floor with a heavy heart to honor two members of the Iowa National Guard and a civilian interpreter killed by ISIS terrorists in Syria on December 13th.
• 🇺🇸 Sergeant William N. Howard and Sergeant Edward B. Torres Tovar made the ultimate sacrifice while serving with the Second Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division.

Sergeant Nate Howard's Service

• 🎖️ Sergeant Nate Howard, from Marshalltown, Iowa, served 11 years in the Iowa National Guard, inspired by his grandfather's service.
• ✈️ He deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Inherent Resolve to combat ISIS and previously served in Kosovo in 2020.
• 💍 His wife, Ariana, wishes for him to be remembered for his courage and bravery.

Sergeant Edgar Torres's Dedication

• 🌟 Sergeant Edgar Torres, from De Moine, Iowa, also deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve and served in Kosovo.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 He was the first in his family to serve in the U.S. military, remembered by his family and peers as selfless and caring.

Broader Implications of Terrorism

• 🕊️ The loss serves as an unfortunate reminder of the ever-present dangers of terrorism and the ongoing need for Americans serving abroad.
• 🗽 Grassley emphasized the necessity for the U.S. to strengthen its ability to combat terrorism while preserving liberties.
• 🙏 He extended deepest condolences to the families of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres, noting it had been over a decade since an Iowan was lost in combat.