Bentz, David John Iii
Male
Verified PFC David John Bentz III, 20, from Newfield, NJ, died on June 20, 2007, in Baghdad, Iraq, serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor, during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Their Story
Private First Class David John Bentz III was born and raised in Newfield, New Jersey. He enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to Company B, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor, based at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
Bentz was deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom, a military campaign initiated in March 2003 with the goal of toppling the regime of Saddam Hussein. The mission evolved over the years, with U.S. forces confronting various insurgent groups across the country.
On June 20, 2007, PFC Bentz lost his life in Baghdad, Iraq. His death was recorded as hostile, a reflection of the ongoing dangers faced by service members during this period of intense conflict.
The years surrounding his deployment were marked by heightened violence and increased sectarian tensions in Iraq. In particular, 2006 and 2007 were among the deadliest years for coalition forces, following the bombing of the al-Askari shrine in Samarra in 2006.
Bentz's service and sacrifice are commemorated by his unit and his community back home. His passing is a solemn reminder of the human cost of military service and the ongoing struggle for stability in regions affected by conflict.
Explore Further
Operation Iraqi Freedom concluded in August 2010, and further information can be found in historical records of the conflict. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Aubin, Jay Thomas, Beaupre, Ryan Anthony, Childers, Therrel Shane, Gutierrez, Jose.
