The tragic incident involving the disappearance of four US soldiers in Lithuania has taken a somber turn, as the bodies of three of the soldiers have been recovered, according to an announcement from the Army on Monday. The vehicle involved in the incident, an M88 Hercules, has also been successfully retrieved from the bog where it was submerged.
Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie, the commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division, expressed profound sorrow in a statement, saying, “The Soldiers we have lost in this tragedy were not just Soldiers - they were a part of our family. Our hearts are heavy with a sorrow that echoes across the whole Marne Division, both forward and at home.” This heartfelt tribute underscores the deep connections within military families and the broader community impacted by the loss.
He further stated, “We stand in grief with the families and loved ones of these extraordinary ‘Dogface Soldiers’ during this unimaginable time. But the search isn’t finished until everyone is home.” This statement highlights the ongoing commitment to finding the fourth soldier, whose identity is being withheld until their family has been notified.
The four soldiers, all part of the 1st Armored Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division based in Fort Stewart, Georgia, went missing during a maintenance training mission on March 25. They were attempting to recover another US vehicle in a designated training area in Lithuania when the unfortunate incident occurred. The M88 Hercules vehicle was discovered the following morning, March 26, prompting a coordinated search and recovery effort.
The recovery operation has involved tremendous resources and collaboration. According to the Army, “hundreds of service members from the US Army, US Navy, Lithuanian Armed Forces, and the Polish Armed Forces—along with other elements from the Lithuanian government and civilian agencies—have been working around the clock.” These dedicated efforts reflect the strong partnership between the US and Lithuanian military forces, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring that all personnel are accounted for.
As the search continues for the fourth soldier, the military community remains united in hope and solidarity, with ongoing support for the families affected by this tragic event. The resilience and dedication of all involved in the recovery efforts exemplify the spirit of service and commitment that defines the armed forces.
