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

Cpl. Stephen P. Johnson, 24, of Covina, Calif.

Lance Cpl. Fred L. Maciel, 20, of Spring, Texas

Both died Jan. 26 when the CH-53E helicopter they were in crashed near Ar Rutbah, Iraq. They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Media with questions about these Marines can call the Marine Corps Base, Hawaii Public Affairs Office at (808) 257-8840 or (808) 257-8839.