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

Spc. Windell J. Simmons, 20, of Hopkinsville, Ky., died of injuries suffered in Taji, Iraq, on Sept.23, when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations. Simmons was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 67th Armor Regiment, 4th Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

For further information related to this release contact the Army Special Operations Command public affairs office at (910) 432-6005.