Military

U.S. Department of Defense Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs) News Release

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

Staff Sgt. Richard A. Blakley, 34, of Plainfield, Ind., died in Al Khalidiyah, Iraq, on June 6, when he was shot by enemy small arms fire during dismounted combat patrol operations. Blakley was assigned to the National Guard's 38th Main Support Battalion, Indianapolis, Ind.

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

http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060608-13207.html