The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Lance Cpl. Brian P. Parrello, 19, of West Milford, N.J.

Lance Cpl. Jason E. Smith, 21, of Phoenix, Ariz.

Smith died Dec. 31, and Parrello died Jan. 1, both as result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. Smith was assigned to 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. Parrello was assigned to Small Craft Company, Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

Media with questions about Smith can contact the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at (760) 725-5044. Media with questions about Parrello can call 2nd Marine Division Public Affairs Office at (910) 451-9033.