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

Spc. Derrick J. Lutters, 24, of Burlington, Colo., died May 1 along a supply route in Iraq when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated while his unit was inspecting a bridge for enemy tampering. Lutters was assigned to the Army National Guards 891st Engineer Battalion, Pittsburg, Kan.

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