The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Both were killed in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle they were traveling in while on patrol. Spc. Onwordi died on Aug. 2 and Pfc. Shondee died on Aug. 3 from injuries sustained from the incident. Both were assigned to the Army's 2nd Battalion, 12th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were:

• Spc. Justin B. Onwordi, 28, of Chandler, Ariz.

• Pfc. Harry N. Shondee, Jr., 19, of Ganado, Ariz.

The incident is under investigation.

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