Iowa National Guard in Middle East: Governor Reynolds Highlights Troops' Crucial Role
In a five-day trip to the Middle East, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds visited nearly 1,800 Iowa National Guard troops deployed in Syria, Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait. The visit underscores the National Guard's pivotal role in national defense and its dual mission of supporting both global security and domestic emergencies.
Understanding the National Guard's Deployment
During a recent attack in Syria on December 13, 2025, two Iowa National Guardsmen, Staff Sgt. Nate Howard of Marshalltown and Staff Sgt. Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines, were killed, along with a civilian interpreter. Three other soldiers were wounded in the ambush by an ISIS gunman. This event has prompted questions about the National Guard's presence in the region.
Why the Guard is in Syria
Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, the adjutant general of the Iowa National Guard, addressed the question directly: “The National Guard is a core component of our nation’s total force, providing 40% of the Army and 30% of the Air Force operational force. The National Guard is no longer a strategic reserve to be utilized in times of the most extreme national emergencies. We are and will continue to be the primary combat reserve of the United States Army and the United States Air Force.”
Osborn emphasized that the National Guard is not a backup or auxiliary force but an integral part of the United States military’s global mission to protect the nation, its allies, and partners. This distinction is significant, as it means the Iowa National Guard is a fully capable and equipped operational force, with 95% of its budget funded federally through the Department of War.
The Dual Role of the National Guard
The National Guard operates as a dual-status component within the military, enabling it to serve both federal and state missions. At home, it provides a ready, disciplined, and capable force that can be deployed immediately to save lives, protect infrastructure, and reassure the public while preserving state authority and control.
Global Missions and Domestic Support
Internationally, the National Guard plays a critical role in addressing complex and evolving threats, supporting security cooperation around the world. Its soldiers and airmen train, deploy, and fight alongside active-duty counterparts, reinforcing the idea that the Guard is an essential part of the joint team, not just a backup force.
Recent Deployments and Future Missions
The Iowa National Guard’s missions and deployments in 2025 reinforce its role as an indispensable element of the joint force and a trusted partner in communities, states, and the nation. Governor Reynolds’ visit was a testament to the Guard’s vital contributions to the global mission.
Personal Touch: Purple Heart Presentation
During her trip, Reynolds presented a Purple Heart to one of the wounded Iowa soldiers. “It was an honor to visit our deployed Soldiers and Airmen in the Middle East and personally thank them for their service on behalf of a grateful state,” Reynolds said. “I am incredibly impressed and proud of the Iowa National Guard’s vital contributions to this global mission.”
Honoring Fallen Heroes
The visit also served as an opportunity to honor the memory of Staff Sgts. Howard and Torres-Tovar, whose sacrifice underscores the risks and realities of military service. Their families and the entire state of Iowa continue to mourn their loss while recognizing the bravery and dedication of all deployed troops.
The National Guard as a Shield and Sword
As Osborn noted, the National Guard is both a shield at home and a sword overseas—an indispensable pillar of national security. The men and women of the Iowa National Guard understand this dual role, embracing their duty to serve their state and nation with honor and endurance.
Continued Support and Recognition
Governor Reynolds’ visit is a reminder of the state’s and nation’s commitment to supporting its military personnel. The National Guard’s readiness and capability are critical to maintaining security both domestically and abroad, and such visits help reinforce the bond between the military and the communities they serve.
Conclusion
The deployment of the Iowa National Guard in the Middle East highlights the evolving and essential role of the National Guard in U.S. military operations. With its dual mission capabilities, the Guard remains a cornerstone of national defense, ready to respond to both global threats and domestic emergencies. Governor Reynolds’ visit not only honored the service of these brave men and women but also affirmed the state’s and nation’s gratitude for their sacrifices.