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

Pfc. Wesley R. Riggs, 19, of Baytown, Texas died May 17 in Tikrit, Iraq, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted position. Riggs was assigned to the Army's 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

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