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

Sgt. Jayton D. Patterson, 26, of Sedley, Va., died Jan. 15 as result of hostile action in Babil Province, Iraq. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Media with questions about this Marine can contact the 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.