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

Lance Cpl. Eric P. Valdepenas, 21, of Seekonk, Mass., died Sept. 4 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Marine Forces Reserve's 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Ayer, Mass.

Media with questions about this Marine can call the 1st Bn., 25th Marines public affairs office at (978) 796-2839.