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

Sgt. 1st Class David J.Salie, 34, of Columbus, Ga., died February 14 in Ba'qubah, Iraq, when his vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device. Salie was assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Benning, Ga.

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