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

Sgt. 1st Class James F. Hayes, 48, of Barstow, Calif., died in Taji, Iraq, on Nov. 6, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during patrol operations. Hayes was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

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