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

Spc. William J. Rechenmacher, 24, of Jacksonville, Fla., died Jan. 18 in Baghdad when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMWV during combat operations.

Spc. Rechenmacher was assigned to the 1st Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.

For further information related to this release, contact the Fort Hood Public Affairs Office, (254) 287-9993.