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

Spc. Phillip N. Sayles, 26, of Jacksonville, Ark., died May 28 in Mosul, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his security position. Sayles was assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash.

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