The Heartbreaking Loss
On December 14, 2025, the community of Marshalltown, Iowa, found itself grieving the profound loss of two beloved soldiers, Nate Howard and his fellow National Guard member, victims of a shocking terrorist attack in Syria. This incident not only highlights the persistent threat posed by ISIS but also serves as a reminder of the personal sacrifices made by our service members and their families.
A Soldier's Legacy
Nate Howard, the son of Meskwaki Nation Police Chief Jeffrey Bunn, dedicated over 11 years to the Iowa Army National Guard. His commitment to service was deeply inspired by his grandfather, marking him as the first from his father's side to enlist. Howard had ambitions to complete a full twenty years of service, carrying not just the courage of a soldier, but also the hopes and dreams of his family and community.
The Attack
The attack occurred in Palmyra, where a single ISIS gunman ambushed a group of Iowa Army National Guard soldiers, resulting in the deaths of two American soldiers and a civilian interpreter, with injuries to three others. As Chief Bunn shared in a heartfelt statement, receiving the tragic news was an experience no parent should endure: "We will see you again son, until then we have it from here." This sentiment encapsulates the weight of loss that reverberates through families, friends, and communities amid such conflicts.
Reflections from Community Leaders
Community leaders have expressed their sorrow, with Tama County Sheriff Casey Schmidt emphasizing the depth of this loss: "An Iowan. A Guardsman. A son who did not come home... Their lives and their service matter." This incident has reignited discussions about the ongoing struggles faced by our armed forces and the need for greater support and recognition of their sacrifices.
The Realities of Service
The deaths of Nate Howard and his comrade bring to light the stark realities of service and the dangers our military personnel face daily. As Senator Jack Reed reminded us in a recent discussion, ISIS remains a formidable threat, reminding us that while we may be distanced from the battlefield, the fight continues and the stakes are incredibly high.
A Call for Support
In response to this tragedy, local organizations, such as the State Center Police Department and the nonprofit Salute to the Fallen Foundation, have rallied together to support the families of the fallen soldiers and reaffirm their commitment to honoring their sacrifices. The message is clear: we must acknowledge the price of service and ensure our veterans are supported throughout their challenges.
Conclusion: Honoring the Fallen
As we reflect on the lives of Nate Howard and the unnamed guard member, we are reminded that these casualties are not merely headlines. They represent families grieving immense losses, communities feeling the impact of such violence, and the ongoing mission our forces undertake to protect our freedoms. In the face of such tragedies, we must collectively recognize the brave individuals who serve and strive to provide them with the respect, resources, and support they deserve.
"ISIS is evil. That is not political. That is reality. Our service members are still standing in harm's way because that evil still exists," stated Sheriff Schmidt. Acknowledging this is crucial in ensuring we honor those who serve.
Source reference: https://www.foxnews.com/us/iowa-police-chiefs-son-among-national-guard-members-killed-syria-isis-terrorist-attack
