The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Michael C. Barkey, 22, of Canal Fulton, Ohio, died July 7 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, when a tire on his military vehicle blew out, the driver lost control and the vehicle turned over. Barkey was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1484th Transportation Company, Akron, Ohio.

The incident is under investigation.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.