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

Cpl. Joseph E. Fite, 23, of Round Rock, Texas, died Jan. 9 as a result of hostile action in Al Anbar Province, Iraq. He was assigned to the Marine Forces Reserve's 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, Austin, Texas.

Media with questions about this Marine can contact the Marine Forces Reserve Public Affairs Office at (504) 678-0700.