As Christmas approaches, our hearts turn to the brave Americans serving far from home — carrying the burden of duty so others may celebrate peace. On this RED FRIDAY Christmas edition, we give thanks to God for every soldier, sailor, airman, and Marine deployed across seas and theaters of operation. We lift up prayers for their safety, courage, and swift return, and we especially remember the families at home — Blue Star families and all loved ones whose faith and sacrifice uphold our forces each day.

This edition highlights three recent and verified U.S. military overseas activities that took place after 13 December 2025:

1. U.S. military conducts strikes on three vessels in the Eastern Pacific, part of ongoing maritime security missions.
2. American service members killed in Syria’s Palmyra region during counter‑terrorism operations — remembering their sacrifice.
3. Pennsylvania National Guard’s 109th MPAD deployment ceremony — Guard members forward deployed for a year‑long mission to Europe.

May the spirit of peace on Earth and goodwill to all be our guide — especially for those in harm’s way this Christmas season. May the courage of our troops reflect Christ’s light in the darkest hours, and may their families feel the warmth of our collective prayer and gratitude.

Location: International waters, Eastern Pacific Ocean
Date of Operation: 15 December 2025

The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) confirmed that on 15 December 2025, U.S. military forces conducted lethal kinetic strikes against three vessels in international waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean, resulting in the deaths of eight individuals identified as engaged in illegal trafficking activities.

U.S. military officials reported that intelligence confirmed the vessels were transiting along known narco‑trafficking routes and involved in narcotics smuggling, prompting decisive action to disrupt illicit networks that threaten regional security. This operation was part of an ongoing campaign targeting smuggling operations in key maritime corridors.

The strikes are the latest in a series of coordinated maritime security operations under SOUTHCOM’s mandate to defend international waters, counter trafficking routes, and protect global commerce. Video footage released by U.S. forces showed precision targeting of the vessels prior to the engagement, underscoring the professionalism and capabilities of deployed U.S. military units at sea.

Though conducted far from U.S. shores, these missions reflect a continued commitment by American forces to uphold international law and to confront dangerous elements threatening stability and safety across seas. The service members and units involved maintain readiness even during the holiday season, embodying the enduring resolve of the U.S. military.

Location: Palmyra region, Central Syria
Date of Incident: 13 December 2025

In a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by deployed American forces, U.S. Central Command confirmed that on 13 December 2025, two U.S. Army soldiers and one U.S. civilian interpreter were killed in an ambush near Palmyra, Syria, during counter‑terrorism operations. Multiple service members were also wounded in the engagement.

The attack occurred while U.S. troops were conducting partnered operations with allied forces in an area known for extremist activity. The assailant engaged the convoy with direct fire, resulting in tragic loss of life. Partnered units returned fire and neutralized the threat.

This deployment reflects long‑standing U.S. commitments to combating violent extremist networks and stabilizing volatile regions through coordination with local and coalition partners. The names of the fallen were not released at the time of reporting out of respect for family notifications and because official acknowledgments were pending.

Remembering Two American Heroes — Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres‑Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard

On a cold winter day December 13, 2025, the United States mourned the loss of two of its own — Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres‑Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, both soldiers of the Iowa Army National Guard, who were killed in an ambush near Palmyra, Syria while carrying out their nation’s mission abroad. Their deaths, the result of an attack the U.S. military attributed to an Islamic State affiliate, struck a solemn note across communities, families, and a grateful nation.

Lives of Service and Commitment

Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres‑Tovar, age 25, of Des Moines, Iowa, was known to those who served with him as a selfless and dedicated soldier. He served as a member of the 1st Squadron, 113th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 34th Infantry Division — a unit deployed in support of counterterrorism and counter‑ISIS operations in the region. Torres‑Tovar’s commitment to his fellow soldiers and his country embodied the highest ideals of service; he was respected for his professionalism, his willingness to help others, and the quiet courage he carried into every mission.

Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, age 29, of Marshalltown, Iowa, had served in the Iowa National Guard for over a decade. A lifelong resident of Marshalltown and a graduate of Marshalltown High School, Howard answered the call to serve early in life and continued with unwavering dedication. Known to friends and family as “Nate,” he brought pride to his community through his love of soldiering, strong faith, and deep sense of duty. Howard balanced his military commitments with life as a husband and a devoted family member, inspiring all who knew him with his steadfast loyalty and warm spirit.

The Attack and Its Aftermath

The ambush occurred during what U.S. officials described as a “key leader engagement” — part of ongoing efforts to work alongside partner forces and local leaders to prevent the resurgence of violent extremist organizations in Syria. Alongside Torres‑Tovar and Howard, a U.S. civilian interpreter also lost his life in the attack. Three other National Guard soldiers were wounded and are recovering. The assailant was engaged and killed by partner forces.

This tragic incident marked the first U.S. military fatalities in Syria since the fall of the Assad regime in 2024 — underscoring both the persistent dangers American service members face and the complexity of the mission in a region long scarred by conflict.

Tributes and National Mourning

Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa ordered flags throughout the state to be flown at half‑staff in their honor, a visible symbol of grief and respect. Leaders from across the nation expressed profound sorrow and gratitude for the sacrifice made by these two men — individuals who answered their nation’s call and gave everything in service to others.

Maj. Gen. Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard, spoke of their loss and the deep bond shared among those who serve: both soldiers “represented the best of Iowa” — professionals, comrades, and cherished members of the Guard family whose legacy will not be forgotten.

Friends, family, and fellow soldiers remember Torres‑Tovar and Howard not for the tragic way their lives ended, but for the honor, courage, and strength they carried throughout their lives — qualities that defined not only their service but their character. They stood shoulder‑to‑shoulder with their countrymen in a dangerous land, unwavering in their resolve to protect others. Their sacrifice stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who serve.

A Nation’s Gratitude

As flags fly at half‑staff and communities reflect on their sacrifice, the memory of Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres‑Tovar and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard lives on — in the hearts of loved ones, in the gratitude of a nation, and in the ongoing commitment of those who continue the work they began. Theirs is a legacy of service, courage, and selfless devotion — a legacy that will remain long after the echoes of conflict have faded.

As we enter the Christmas season, we honor their bravery, devotion to mission, and ultimate sacrifice. In this sacred time, we hold their families and fellow soldiers in our prayers, mindful of the cost of freedom and the burdens borne by those who serve far from loved ones.

Location: Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania / Germany
Deployment Date: 13 December 2025

On 13 December 2025, the Pennsylvania Army National Guard’s 109th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD) held a deployment ceremony at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, launching a year‑long mission to Europe in support of U.S. Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR).

The ten Soldiers of the 109th MPAD will provide vital public affairs planning and communication support to multinational operations, helping tell the story of U.S. and allied activities across the European theater. The unit’s rigorous pre‑deployment preparation included physical readiness training and extensive media operations exercises, reflecting the high standards expected of National Guard units deployed overseas.

During the departure ceremony, leaders and families praised the Soldiers’ commitment, character, and professionalism. The unit’s mission will contribute to strengthening interoperability between U.S. forces and European partners, enhancing readiness, and ensuring transparent communication of operational activities abroad.

As these Guardsmen begin their deployment just days before Christmas, our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families — for protection, resilience, and peace as they serve on foreign soil during this holy season.

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