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Military officials confirmed that the circumstances surrounding the ambush remain under investigation, and additional details have not yet been released.
The Iowa National Guard announced the deaths in an official statement, released in accordance with Department of War notification policies. The announcement underscored the seriousness of the loss and the sacrifice made by the soldiers in service to their country.
“In accordance with Department of War release authority, the Iowa National Guard is releasing the names of two Soldiers who were killed in an enemy attack on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, in Palmyra, Syria,” the statement read.
The Guard identified the fallen troops as Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown, Iowa, and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torrestovar, 25, of Grimes, Iowa. Both soldiers were members of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, a unit with a long history of service and sacrifice.
Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, issued a heartfelt statement honoring the fallen soldiers and acknowledging the grief felt across the state and nation.
“Today, we honor the memory and sacrifice of Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torrestovar by sharing their names with a grateful state and nation,” Osborn said.
“They were dedicated professionals and cherished members of our Guard family who represented the best of Iowa. Our focus now is providing unwavering support to their families through this unimaginable time and ensuring the legacy of these two heroes is never forgotten.”
In addition to the two soldiers killed, three other Iowa National Guard members were wounded during the attack. Military officials said two of the injured troops required medical evacuation to receive additional treatment and are currently listed in stable condition.
The third wounded soldier was treated locally and is reported to be in good condition. In keeping with Department of War policy, the names of the injured service members have not been released.
All of the soldiers involved in the ambush are assigned to the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, which falls under the 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 34th Infantry Division. The brigade is currently deployed to the Middle East as part of ongoing U.S. efforts to counter ISIS and support allied forces in the region.
Operation Inherent Resolve, launched to dismantle and defeat ISIS, continues to place American troops in dangerous environments despite repeated claims from political leaders that the terror group has been largely defeated.
The deaths of Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torres Tovar serve as a stark reminder that the threat has not disappeared and that U.S. service members remain on the front lines, often far from home, facing hostile forces determined to inflict harm.
As Iowa mourns the loss of two of its own, communities across the state are rallying around the families left behind, honoring the bravery and commitment of soldiers who paid the ultimate price in defense of their nation.
Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.
