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

Spc. Brian K. Derks, 21, of White Cloud, Minn., died on Aug. 13, 2005, in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was on mounted patrol. Derks was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Calvary Regiment, Fort Irwin, Calif.

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