Gov. Kim Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be flown at half-staff in honor of two Iowa Army National Guard soldiers killed in Syria over the weekend. The order takes effect immediately and will remain active until sunset on the final day of interment for 29-year-old Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard of Marshalltown and 25-year-old Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar of Grimes. A date for their services has not yet been set. Both soldiers were members of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment. Howard and Torres-Tovar were killed Saturday, Dec. 13, during an enemy attack in Palmyra, Syria. A civilian interpreter was also killed during the attack, and three other Iowa National Guard soldiers were wounded. Reynolds says, “Sgt. Howard and Sgt. Torres-Tovar served our state and nation with honor, and in doing so, gave the ultimate sacrifice. We are grateful for their service and deeply mourn their loss. Kevin and I offer our prayers and condolences to their families and ask that Iowans stand united in support of them during this difficult time.” Flags will be lowered at the State Capitol and throughout the Capitol Complex, as well as on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities statewide. Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
