The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.  They died on Oct. 14, in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their convoys. 

     Staff Sgt. Omer T. Hawkins, II, 31, of Cherry Fork, Ohio.  Hawkins was assigned to the Army's 44^th Engineer Battalion, Camp Howze, Korea.

     Spc. Bradley S. Beard, 22, of Chapel Hill, N.C.  Beard was assigned to the Army's 2^nd Battalion, 17^th Field Artillery Regiment, 2^nd Infantry Division, Camp Hovey, Korea.

     Pfc. Mark A. Barbret, 22, of Shelby Township, Mich.  Barbret was assigned to the Army's 44^th Engineer Battalion, Camp Howze, Korea.

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