Military

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

            Master Sgt. Joseph J. Andres, Jr., 34, of Seven Hills, Ohio, died in Balad, Iraq, on Dec. 24, of injuries sustained earlier that day in Baqubah, Iraq, when he was attacked by enemy forces during combat operations. Andres was assigned to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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