(JBLM Release) - The Department of Defense announced Wednesday the death of a soldier deployed in support Operation Iraqi Freedom. Spc. Christopher W. Opat, 29, of Spencer, Iowa, died June 15 in Baqubah, Iraq of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. Opat was assigned to 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.

Opat's awards and decorations include the Army Good Conduct Medal (two awards), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.