The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Stephen P. Downing II, 30, of Burkesville, Ky., died Oct. 28 in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, from small arms fire while conducting combat operations. Downing was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 17th Field Artillery, Camp Hovey, Korea.

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