Joni Ernst: “this weekend, three brave Americans gave their lives in service to our country. My heart goes out to the families of SGT…”

“this weekend, three brave Americans gave their lives in service to our country. My heart goes out to the families of SGT William Jerome Rivers, SPC Kennedy Sanders, and SPC Breonna Moffett, who were serving in the Army Reserves 718th Engineer Company--the same company I served in nearly 30 years ago as a platoon leader. I know the bravery of men and women who put themselves in harm's way, and my prayers are with their colleagues who are suffering from their injuries. Our servicemembers continue to be on the frontlines of Iran-backed attacks. Earlier this month, two Navy SEALs went missing in action while interdicting lethal aid that Iran was resupplying to the Houthis. Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher Chambers and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Ingram made the ultimate sacrifice working to prevent more Iranian-backed terror. Iran's proxies who continue to attack our troops must know how seriously the United States takes American lives. Every American life is precious. Our adversaries need to understand that a single American loss is one too many and that they will pay dearly for spilling the blood of those who wear the uniform. I have said it before, and I will say it again: American weakness on the world stage emboldens our adversaries and puts U.S. citizens at risk. Right now, today, six Americans continue to be held hostage by Iran- backed Hamas. This terrorist organization thinks it can barter with American lives.…”