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

Pfc. Ken W. Leisten, 20, of Cornelius, Ore., died July 28, in Taji, Iraq, when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. Leisten was assigned to the Army National Guard,s 2nd Battalion, 162nd Infantry, Corvallis, Ore.

The incident is under investigation.

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