Earlier this month two Iowa National Guardsmen were killed in action in Syria, along with a civilian interpreter.

US Congressman Zach Nunn was part of a group of politicians who met the plane bringing back the remains of Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nate Howard. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that he’s heard questions on what US troops are doing in Syria, and shares on that topic.

“The reality here is that the spread of Islamic terrorism didn’t abate just because we withdrew from Afghanistan. In some places, it’s gotten worse. And being able to nip this at the start, I believe, is far more effective than allowing it to show up on our shores here at home. And so this mission is very important, but I think we should be constantly evaluating any overseas commitment that would put men and women from Iowa or the United States in harm’s way.”

Nunn mentions that the loss of life is tragic, and that he wishes it wouldn’t happen. He adds that even with that, for those who do pay the ultimate price, it is critical to remember them and their bravery in serving their country.