A resolution honoring the service and sacrifice of United States Army Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard and United States Army Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, who were killed in action in Palmyra, Syria, in a targeted assault against United States service members on December 13, 2025.
Summary
This resolution honors the service and sacrifice of United States Army Sergeants William Nathaniel Howard and Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, who were killed in action in Palmyra, Syria, on December 13, 2025. The soldiers were part of the Iowa Army National Guard and were engaged in a counter-terrorism operation against Islamic State remnants. The resolution expresses sympathy and gratitude to the families and acknowledges the bravery of those who responded to the attack.
Expected Effects
The resolution formally recognizes the sacrifice of the fallen soldiers and expresses support for their families. It serves as a symbolic gesture of gratitude from the House of Representatives. The resolution also condemns the terrorist attack and reaffirms the commitment to combating terrorism.
Potential Benefits
- Formally recognizes the service and sacrifice of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar.
- Provides a public expression of sympathy and support to the families of the fallen soldiers.
- Honors the bravery and professionalism of the National Guard members and partner forces.
- Condemns the terrorist attack, reinforcing the nation's stance against terrorism.
- Acknowledges the dedication and selfless service of National Guard members.
Potential Disadvantages
- The resolution is largely symbolic and does not directly address the underlying causes of the conflict or prevent future attacks.
- It does not provide direct financial assistance or specific resources to the families beyond the expression of sympathy.
- The resolution may not reach a wide audience, limiting its impact on public awareness and support for military personnel.
- It could be perceived as a reactive measure rather than a proactive strategy to address national security concerns.
- The resolution does not address the broader implications of military engagement in Syria.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution aligns with the Constitution's implied powers related to national defense and honoring military service. While the Constitution does not explicitly mandate resolutions of this nature, it implicitly supports actions that recognize and support those who serve in the armed forces. The resolution also aligns with the general welfare clause by promoting a sense of national unity and gratitude towards those who defend the country.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).