Army Confirms Identities of Two U.S. Soldiers Killed in Syria Attack

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Army Confirms Identities of Two U.S. Soldiers Killed in Syria Attack

The identities of two American soldiers killed in Syria have been confirmed by the Army. Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, both served in the Iowa National Guard. The incident occurred over the weekend in Palmyra, during a counter-ISIS mission.

Details of the Incident

The tragic ambush was attributed to an ISIS gunman. Alongside the two soldiers, a civilian interpreter was also killed during the attack. The Pentagon stated that the soldiers were engaging in a “key leader engagement” when they came under fire.

Response from Officials

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds expressed her condolences, saying, “Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torres-Tovar served our state and nation with honor and in doing so, gave the ultimate sacrifice.” In honor of their service, she ordered flags across Iowa to be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of their funerals.

Three U.S. service members were injured during the attack, and the assailant was subsequently killed. The U.S. currently maintains approximately 1,000 troops in Syria for counter-ISIS operations.

National Reaction

Following the ambush, President Trump issued a statement regarding the incident. He noted, “We mourn the loss of three great patriots in Syria. It was an ambush, terrible.” The president described the injuries to the three other servicemen as serious but stated they seemed to be recovering well. He also mentioned the impact of the incident on Syria’s new president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, who was reportedly devastated by the attack.

Significance of the Loss

This incident marks the first U.S. troop deaths in Syria since the fall of President Bashar Al Assad last year. The ongoing conflict with ISIS continues to pose risks for U.S. forces stationed in the region.