The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Both were killed in Baghdad, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near the vehicle they were traveling in while on patrol. Spc. Onwordi died on Aug. 2 and Pfc. Shondee died on Aug. 3 from injuries sustained from the incident. Both were assigned to the Armys 2^nd Battalion, 12^th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 1^st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. Killed were:

Spc. Justin B. Onwordi, 28, of Chandler, Ariz.

Pfc. Harry N. Shondee, Jr., 19, of Ganado, Ariz.

The incident is under investigation.

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