Military

            The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.  They died in Al Haqlaniyah, Iraq, on Oct. 3, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during combat operations.  The soldiers were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.

            Killed were:

            Sgt. Bryan W. Large, 31, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.

            Spc. Jacob T. Vanderbosch, 21, of Vadnais Heights, Minn.

            Pfc. Roberto C. Baez, 19, of Tampa, Fla.

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