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

Sgt. Gene A. Hawkins, 24, of Orlando, Fla., died on Oct. 12 in Mosul, Iraq, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his RG-31 Mine Protected Vehicle. Hawkins was assigned to the 14th Engineer Battalion, 555th Combat Support Brigade (Maneuver Enhancement), Fort Lewis, Wash.

For further information related to this release, contact the Fort Lewis Public Affairs Office at (253) 967-0152.