Military

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

            Lance Cpl. Juan C. Venegas, 21, of Simi Valley, Calif., died April 7 as a result of a vehicle accident while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.  He was assigned to 3^rd Battalion, 4^th Marine Regiment, 1^st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Twentynine Palms, Calif.  During Operation Iraqi Freedom, Venegas was attached to Regimental Combat Team 8, 2^nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

            The incident is currently under investigation.

            Media with questions about this Marine can call the Twentynine Palms Public Affairs Office at (760) 830-6213.