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

Chief Petty Officer Paul J. Darga, 34, of Lansing, Mich., died Aug. 22 when his Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team was struck by an improvised explosive device while responding to a previous strike. His unit was conducting combat operations against enemy forces in the Al Anbar province, Iraq.

Darga was assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Two, serving with the 1st Marine Logistics Group.

For further information related to this release, contact Naval Expeditionary Combat Command public affairs at (757) 462-7400, ext. 137.