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

Sgt. Russell L. Collier, 48, of Harrison, Ark., died October 3rd in Taji, Iraq. His unit was conducting traffic control operations when enemy forces attacked them using small arms fire. Collier was assigned to 1st Battalion, 206th Field Artillery Regiment, Arkansas National Guard, Russellville, Ark.

For further information on this soldier, contact Army Public Affairs at (703) 692-2000.