The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Maj. Gregory J. Fester, 41, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died on Aug. 30, 2005, in Iskandariyah, Iraq, where an improvised explosive device detonated near his dismounted patrol. Fester was a reservist assigned to the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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