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

Sgt. Frank B. Hernandez, 21, of Phoenix, Ariz., died Feb. 17 in Tal Afar, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Hernandez was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Fort Lewis, Wash.

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