JOHNSTON, Iowa (KCRG) – Iowa National Guard officials say three soldiers injured in Saturday’s attack are recovering, while the two fallen soldiers will return to Iowa by the end of the week.
Two injured soldiers are being medically evacuated and will return to the United States. The third has been treated and returned to duty.
The three injured Iowa National Guard soldiers have not been identified per protocol.
The two fallen soldiers were identified as Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, of Marshalltown, and Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, of Des Moines. Both were members of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the state, honoring both soldiers.
“Today, we continue to mourn the loss of two extraordinary soldiers who were killed in action in Syria,” said Major General Stephen Osborn, adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard. “Their courage, professionalism, and commitment to duty represent the very best of our armed forces, and we are deeply grateful for their service and sacrifice.”
The soldiers are among about 1,800 Iowa National Guard members deployed to the Middle East in May, part of a counter-terrorism effort called “Operation Inherent Resolve.”
Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered flags be flown at half-staff in their honor.





