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

Spc. Rocky D. Payne, 26, of Howell, Utah, died March 16 in Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV. Payne was assigned to the Army's 497th Transportation Company, 44th Corps Support Battalion, 1st Corps Support Command, Fort Lewis, Wash.

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