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

Sgt. Christopher J. Taylor, 22, of Opelika, Ala., died July 24 in Balad, Iraq, when he was hit by mortar rounds while he was exiting a bunker. Taylor was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart, Ga.

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