DoD Identifies Marine Casualties
February 13, 2006

The Department of Defense announced today the death of two Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Javier Chavez Jr., 19, of Cutler, Calif., died Feb. 9 from wounds received as a result of an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations near Fallujah, Iraq.

Cpl. Ross A. Smith, 21, of Wyoming, Mich., died Feb. 9 from an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations against enemy forces near Fallujah, Iraq.

Both Marines were assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif. During OIF their unit is attached to 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward).

Media with questions about these Marines can call the Camp Pendleton Public Affairs Office at 760-720-5044.