A tragic incident has shaken the Iowa Army National Guard, as one of the soldiers killed in a recent terrorist attack in Syria has been identified as the son of a local police chief. The loss has deeply affected the community, as Meskwaki Nation Police Chief Jeffrey Bunn shared the heartbreaking news on social media, confirming that his son, Nate Howard, was among the fallen.

The attack unfolded over the weekend in Palmyra, where a lone gunman affiliated with the Islamic State targeted a group of soldiers. The ambush resulted in the deaths of two American soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter, while also leaving three other U.S. soldiers injured.

Chief Bunn expressed his sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post, writing, “Today, two of our Iowa Army National Guard Soldiers were killed in action along with a Civilian Interpreter in Syria. My wife Misty and I received that dreaded visit from Army Commanders. Our son Nate was among those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our safety. He was passionate about his duty, always leading from the front and ensuring no one was left behind. We ask for prayers for all our soldiers stationed in this harsh world. We will meet again, son, but until then, we will carry on.”

Nate Howard’s dedication to service was evident throughout his career. Having joined the Iowa Army National Guard over 11 years ago, he was inspired by his grandfather’s military service and became the first from his father’s side of the family to enlist. He aspired to serve for a full 20 years. His unit, B Troop, 1-113th Cavalry, based in Marshalltown, recognized his commitment and contributions.

The attack, which occurred on December 13, 2025, underscores the persistent threats faced by U.S. forces abroad. The Meskwaki Nation Police Department in Iowa, along with the community, mourns the loss of a brave soldier and extends their condolences to all affected by this senseless violence.

According to the National Guard’s B Troop, 1-113th Cavalry, the Marshalltown native served in the Iowa Army National Guard for more than 11 years and had hoped to complete 20 years of service. Inspired by his grandfather’s service, he became the first person from his father’s side of the family to join the armed forces, officials said.

When off duty, Howard worked at Fisher Controls, a Marshalltown-based industrial equipment manufacturer, as a laser engraving specialist, officials added. He also enjoyed shooting, woodworking and gaming, according to the unit. 

Nate Howard (left) proudly served in the Iowa Army National Guard for over 11 years. (B TROOP 1-113th CAV)

Tama County Sheriff Casey Schmidt offered her condolences to Howard’s family and called the guardsman “a son who did not come home” in a Facebook post on Sunday.

“Yesterday, we learned that two members of the Iowa National Guard were killed in a terrorist attack in Syria,” Schmidt said in a statement. “One of those service members was Nate Howard. An Iowan. A Guardsman. A son who did not come home. We also mourn the loss of the other Iowa National Guardsman who was killed. Their lives and their service matter.”

“I have been friends with Jeff Bunn for many years. Jeff serves as the Police Chief for the Meskwaki Nation Police Department, a community within Tama County. I am thankful for his friendship, and my heart is broken for Jeff, Misty, and their family. Losing a child is something no parent should ever have to face.”

One of the two Iowa Army National Guard members killed in Saturday’s terrorist attack has been identified as Nate Howard. (Tama County Sheriff’s Office)

Schmidt said the deaths underscored that the cost of service is “real,” especially against forces such as ISIS. 

“This hits close to home. It reminds us that service is personal and that the cost is real,” Schmidt added. “These losses are not headlines. They are families, coworkers, and communities left carrying the weight.”

“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. Acknowledging that matters, and so does remembering why they serve.”

“I am deeply thankful for the men and women of our armed forces, and I believe we do not do enough for them. They accept risks most people never have to think about.”

Separately, the State Center Police Department and nonprofit Salute to the Fallen Foundation echoed the same sentiment in a Facebook post Sunday, saying their thoughts and prayers are with Howard’s friends and family.

Fox News Digital reached out to the Meskwaki Nation Police Department, Tama County Sheriff’s Office and the B Troop, 1-113th Cavalry for more information.