Bill Summary
This concurrent resolution authorizes the use of the Capitol rotunda for the lying in state of the remains of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, both members of the Iowa National Guard. It acknowledges their distinguished service in the 1st Squadron of the 113th Cavalry Regiment. The resolution stipulates that the date for this honor will be determined by the President pro tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Additionally, it designates that the Architect of the Capitol will coordinate the necessary arrangements for this solemn event, reflecting the legislative body's respect and recognition for the sacrifices made by these servicemen.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how this concurrent resolution could affect people:
1. **Honoring Military Service**: The resolution serves as a formal recognition of the sacrifices made by Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard. This public acknowledgment can have a profound emotional impact on their families, friends, and communities, fostering a sense of pride and gratitude for their service.
2. **Public Mourning and Reflection**: Allowing the remains of the sergeants to lie in state in the Capitol rotunda provides an opportunity for the public to pay their respects. This can create a space for collective mourning and reflection on the sacrifices made by military personnel, encouraging citizens to engage with and appreciate the values of service and patriotism.
3. **Civic Engagement and Education**: The event may draw attention to the contributions of the Iowa National Guard and military service in general. It can serve as an educational moment for the public, especially younger generations, highlighting the importance of military history and the role of service members in protecting the nation, potentially inspiring civic engagement and discussions about service.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Con. Res. 67 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. CON. RES. 67
Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in
state of the remains of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, and of
Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, of the Iowa National Guard.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
December 15, 2025
Mr. Mast (for himself, Mr. Nunn of Iowa, Mr. Feenstra, Mrs. Miller-
Meeks, and Mrs. Hinson) submitted the following concurrent resolution;
which was referred to the Committee on House Administration
_______________________________________________________________________
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in
state of the remains of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, and of
Sergeant William Nathaniel Howard, of the Iowa National Guard.
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring),
That, in recognition of Sergeant Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar and Sergeant
William Nathaniel Howard, who served with distinction in the 1st
Squadron of the 113th Cavalry Regiment of the Iowa National Guard,
their remains shall be permitted to lie in state in the rotunda of the
Capitol on a date to be determined by the President pro tempore of the
Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the
Architect of the Capitol, under the direction of the President pro
tempore of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives,
shall take all necessary steps for the accomplishment of that purpose.
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