Importance Score: 72 / 100 🔴
LITHUANIA – The search for missing U.S. Army soldiers in Lithuania concluded Tuesday afternoon with the recovery of the fourth and final body. Military officials confirmed the discovery, marking a somber end to the week-long search following a training exercise incident last week. This recovery comes after three other soldiers were found deceased on Monday.
Incident Details of Army Training Exercise in Lithuania
The four soldiers, assigned to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, disappeared on March 25 during a routine training exercise. The incident occurred when their M88A2 Hercules, a 63-ton armored recovery vehicle, became submerged in a peat bog. Authorities also successfully extracted the heavy vehicle from the bog early Monday.
Investigation Underway into Training Accident
A joint investigation by the U.S. Army and Lithuanian authorities is currently underway to determine the cause of this training accident involving the U.S. Army soldiers and the armored vehicle.
Extensive Search Operation for Missing Soldiers Near Pabradė
The final soldier was located near Pabradė following an extensive week-long search operation. Hundreds of rescue personnel from American, Lithuanian, Polish, and Estonian armed forces participated in the challenging search. The operation involved navigating dense forests and marshlands, requiring specialized equipment to manage the unstable terrain.
Operation Atlantic Resolve and Unit Deployment
These soldiers were deployed to Lithuania as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve. This ongoing operation aims to bolster regional security by providing a credible ground deterrent alongside NATO allies and partners. The soldiers were permanently based at Fort Stewart, Georgia.
Official Statement on Loss of Soldiers
Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division, issued a statement: “This past week has been devastating. Today our hearts bear the weight of an unbearable pain with the loss of our final Dogface Soldier. Though we have received some closure, the world is darker without them.”
Developing Story
Please note this is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.