United States Department of Defense

            The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.  They died north of Deh Rawod, Afghanistan, on Feb. 13, when an improvised explosive device detonated near their HMMWV during combat operations.

            Killed were:

            Sgt. 1st Class Chad A. Gonsalves, 31, of Turlock, Calif.  Gonsalves was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.

            Staff Sgt. Edwin H. Dazachacon, 38, of Belleville, Ill.  Dazachacon was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.

            Staff Sgt. Clinton T. Newman, 26, of San Antonio, Texas.  Newman was assigned to the 321^st Civil Affairs Brigade, San Antonio, Texas

            Sgt. Alberto D. Montrond, 27, of Suffolk, Mass.  Montrond was assigned to the Group Support Battalion, 7^th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.

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