Senate unanimously adopts resolution honoring two service members killed in Syria

The State Senate on opening day unanimously adopted Senate Resolution 101 to honor Staff Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Staff Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, who died in an enemy attack in Syria while serving their country.

The senator who introduced the measure (identified in the transcript as the senator from Winneshiek) said the two men "represent the best Iowa has to offer, a commitment to service, a dedication to our country, and a desire to make the world a better and safer place." The sponsor said the measure was offered to express the Senate’s gratitude to the families, friends and loved ones of the fallen.

Following brief introductory remarks from the sponsor, the senator moved adoption of the resolution. The presiding officer called for the ayes and the chair announced the resolution adopted; the transcript records the voice vote as "ayes" with no roll-call tally included.

The resolution, as described on the floor, pays the Senate’s respects to Staff Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres Tovar and Staff Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard and records the body’s appreciation for their service. The Senate then recessed for a Legislative Council meeting.

Next steps: the resolution was adopted on the floor; the transcript does not record any subsequent committee or clerical actions related to the document.