Iowa to Rename VA Clinics After Fallen National Guard Soldiers

Bipartisan effort led by Senator Joni Ernst to honor the sacrifices of Staff Sgts. Edgar Torres-Tovar and William Nathaniel Howard

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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In a bipartisan effort, Iowa is set to permanently honor the sacrifices of two Iowa National Guardsmen, Staff Sgts. Edgar Torres-Tovar and William Nathaniel Howard, who were killed in action during a counterterrorism mission in Syria in 2025. Legislation is underway to rename VA facilities in Des Moines and Marshalltown after the fallen soldiers.

Why it matters

This act of remembrance underscores a growing national trend of recognizing the sacrifices of military personnel through tangible memorials and dedications. Naming public facilities after fallen heroes provides a visible and enduring tribute, fostering a sense of community gratitude and inspiring future generations.

The details

The Iowa National Guard Heroes Commemoration Act will designate the Des Moines VA clinic as the 'Staff Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar VA Clinic' and the community-based outpatient clinic in Marshalltown as the 'Staff Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard VA Clinic'. This initiative has garnered unanimous support from Iowa's congressional delegation and state leadership.

  • The two Iowa National Guardsmen were killed in action on December 13, 2025.
  • The legislation is currently underway in 2026.

The players

Joni Ernst

U.S. Senator from Iowa and a combat veteran who served in the Iowa National Guard, leading the bipartisan effort to rename the VA clinics.

Edgar Torres-Tovar

Staff Sergeant in the Iowa National Guard who was killed in action in Syria in 2025.

William Nathaniel Howard

Staff Sergeant in the Iowa National Guard who was killed in action in Syria in 2025.

Chuck Grassley

U.S. Senator from Iowa who emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifice of the fallen soldiers.

Kim Reynolds

Governor of Iowa who voiced her support for the renaming, calling it a 'lasting tribute'.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.