The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died Jan. 4 in Taji, Iraq, when an improvised explosive devise detonated near their military vehicle.

Killed were:

Spc. Jimmy D. Buie, 44, of Floral, Ark. Buie was assigned to the Army National Guard's 3rd Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Fordyce, Ark.

Spc. Jeremy W. McHalffey, 28, of Mabelvale, Ark. McHalffey was assigned to the Army National Guard's 39th Infantry Brigade, Little Rock, Ark.

Spc. Joshua S. Marcum, 33, of Evening Shade, Ark. Marcum was assigned to the Army National Guard's 3rd Battalion, 153rd Infantry Regiment, 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Camden, Ark.

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