IA Guard member returns from the Middle East. First Lieutenant Izaak is officially back to Northwest Iowa following a nine-month deployment to Syria. Serving as an infantry platoon leader with the 113th Cav, Izaak was part of the Le Mars unit supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. The mission covers several countries in the Middle East, though it specifically stationed Izaak’s unit in Syria.
Back at home, Izaak’s fiancée, Kaylee, managed their daily life, balancing her career while caring for their two dogs. Despite the distance, the couple remained anchored by their faith and consistent communication. Kaylee received strength from the Church community while Izaak drew strength from a specific piece of scripture.
Buying a home with Izaak still overseas put the couple’s long-distance communication to a unique test. Engaged since early 2025, they navigated the real estate market through text links and FaceTime. Kaylee handled the physical appointments, walking Izaak through potential homes via video calls whenever the local reception allowed it. Izaak didn’t step foot in their new house until his return last Thursday.
Now back on Iowa soil, Izaak is returning to his day-to-day role within the community as the School Resource Officer at Sioux Center Christian School. A graduate of South Bryan High School and Northwestern College, Izaak says he is grateful to be back where he can return to his passions for hiking, hunting, and serving the community.
Cover Photo is from the Sioux Center Police Department’s Facebook page.
