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

Sgt. DeForest L. Talbert, 24, of Charleston, W.Va., died July 27 in Baladruc, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Talbert was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 150th Armor Regiment from Beckley, W.Va.

The incident is under investigation.

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