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

            Spc. Wesley R. Wells, 21, of Libertyville, Ill., died Sept.20, in Naka, Afghanistan, when his observation post was fired on by anti-coalition militia forces.  Wells was assigned to the 2^nd Battalion, 27^th Infantry Regiment, 25^th Infantry Division (Light), Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

            The incident is under investigation.

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