This undated combo photo created with images released by the Iowa National Guard shows Sgts. William Nathaniel Howard, left, and Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar. (Iowa National Guard via AP)

On Dec. 13, while conducting a routine patrol in Palmyra, Syria as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, two members of the Iowa National Guard and a U.S. civilian interpreter were killed, and three other soldiers from Iowa were injured, by a lone ISIS gunman. This despicable terrorist act was not only a targeted and deadly attack on our troops, but also a direct assault on the United States’ work to ensure a more stable Syria after over a decade of civil conflict. We mourn the tragic loss of these brave Iowans and continue to pray for their families and loved ones as well as full and speedy recoveries for the injured.

It was a solemn and deeply moving experience to attend the dignified transfer of the Iowa National Guardsmen at Dover Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware. Sergeant Nate Howard of Marshalltown and Sergeant Edgar Torres-Tovar of Des Moines were patriots whose bravery will be remembered as they made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Our Iowa National Guard exemplifies the best of our state, selflessly representing our country with integrity and courage. I’m grateful to President Trump for receiving these fallen heroes in a manner that truly honored their service to our country and paid tribute to their sacrifice, and I know that the President will keep his promise to punish these vicious terrorists for their crimes.

The day before the dignified transfer, I also joined my Iowa colleagues in leading a moment of silence on the House floor to honor the lives of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar. This was a small gesture to pay our respects to these fallen heroes and show that their service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Our country owes these men an immense debt of gratitude.

It is hard to put into words my deepest appreciation for the roughly 9,000 Iowans who serve our state and country in the Iowa National Guard, including the approximately 1,800 who are currently serving across the Middle East. These men and women have chosen to answer the call to protect our country and our values at home and abroad – knowingly putting their lives at risk. They leave their families for prolonged deployments, miss major life milestones like birthdays and the birth of a newborn, and make unthinkable sacrifices so that the rest of us can live peacefully and freely. These courageous and patriotic Iowans are humble in their service – never seeking recognition or praise. This is just one example of what makes members of the Iowa National Guard some of the finest Americans.

As we enter the Christmas season, I ask all Iowans to join me in praying for the families and loved ones of Sergeant Howard and Sergeant Torres-Tovar. There will be an empty seat at the dinner table and a hole in their hearts that nobody should have to endure. I also ask that we pray that three injured soldiers fully recover and are quickly reunited with their families. Even in the darkest moments, we can never forget the incredible power of prayer.

Today and always, we owe our men and women in uniform our unwavering gratitude and deepest appreciation. The light of these brave Iowans will never dim, and their memories will be remembered forever.

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Randy Feenstra, a Republican from Hull, represents Iowa’s Fourth District in the U.S. House.