Two Iowa National Guard soldiers who were killed in a recent attack in Syria by ISIS have been officially identified and honored for their service. The soldiers were identified as Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, from Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, from Marshalltown. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds ordered flags in the state to be flown at half-staff in their honor, expressing gratitude for their service and deep sorrow for their loss.

The Pentagon confirmed the tragic incident, revealing that a civilian interpreter working with the U.S. military was also killed in the attack. Additionally, three other Guard members were injured, with two in stable condition and one in good condition. The attack took place in the Syrian desert near Palmyra and resulted in the death of the attacker, who had recently been reassigned due to suspected ties to ISIS.

The incident has raised concerns about security in the region following the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime. The U.S. military has been collaborating with Syrian security forces in the fight against ISIS, with American troops deployed in eastern Syria as part of a coalition. The Army is currently investigating the attack, with military officials attributing it to an ISIS member.

The fallen soldiers, Torres-Tovar and Howard, were hailed as dedicated and valued members of the Iowa National Guard. Major General Stephen Osborn emphasized the importance of supporting their families and preserving their legacy. Howard’s stepfather, Jeffrey Bunn, described him as a passionate soldier who loved his work and was devoted to his faith. Howard’s commitment to serving for 20 years, inspired by his grandfather, was evident in his over 11 years of service.

Torres-Tovar was remembered by his fellow Guard members as a positive and family-oriented individual who always prioritized others. The tragic loss of these soldiers has deeply impacted their families, colleagues, and the nation, with calls for justice and retaliation against those responsible for the attack.