The body of the fourth US soldier missing in Lithuania was found near Podbrodzie, Lithuania on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. This tragic discovery came just a day after the bodies of three other soldiers were confirmed. All four soldiers were part of the 1st Armored Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, and their identities will remain undisclosed until their families have been informed.
The search for the soldiers began on March 25, 2025, when they went missing during military exercises at the General Silvestras Žukauskas training ground, located approximately 15-20 kilometers from the Lithuanian border with Belarus. The soldiers were operating an M88 Hercules armored vehicle, which ultimately sank in a swampy area.
President Gitanas Nauseda of Lithuania expressed his condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and emphasized the impact of this tragedy on both the American and Lithuanian armed forces. "We had hoped until the last moment for a miracle. With deep sadness, I received the news of the deaths of the American soldiers who died during exercises. Their deaths are a devastating blow not only for our American friends but also for the Lithuanian armed forces," said Nauseda.
In a statement, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the four soldiers, stating, "I would like to personally extend my deepest condolences to the families of all four fallen soldiers. We accept this news with sorrow throughout the Department of Defense. We are deeply grateful to our brave soldiers who conducted this difficult search operation, as well as to our Lithuanian hosts who worked alongside them." Hegseth acknowledged the urgency and determination that characterized the search efforts.
The search and rescue operation involved a collaborative effort from Lithuanian and foreign military personnel, including support from Polish allies. Helicopters from the Lithuanian Air Force and the State Border Guard were also deployed in the search, which was conducted around the clock.
On March 31, 2025, the vehicle was successfully lifted from the swamp, revealing the bodies of three soldiers inside. The U.S. Army Command in Europe and Africa (USAREUR-AF) confirmed this development, providing a somber update on the situation.
As the search for the fourth soldier continued, President Nauseda noted, "This catastrophe, which claimed the lives of soldiers, has shaken us all. The United States and Lithuanian forces, supported by our Polish allies, worked day and night during this complicated search and rescue operation to locate the missing soldiers. The Lithuanian nation continuously prayed for them, as we consider American soldiers to be our own."
General Christopher Norrie, commander of the 3rd Infantry Division, expressed gratitude for the efforts made by all involved in the search operation. He stated, "We share the pain with the families of our extraordinary 'Dogface Soldiers.' We will not cease our search until everyone is home. It is difficult to find words to express gratitude for those working day and night, showing extraordinary dedication."
The operation to recover the soldiers was marked by complexity, as the M88 Hercules was submerged approximately four meters below the surface of the water and beneath a two-meter layer of mud. This posed significant challenges for the recovery teams, which included hundreds of rescuers from various countries.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Experts are utilizing specialized equipment, including ground-penetrating radar provided by Lithuanian specialists, to aid in the search for the fourth soldier and to understand the factors that led to the accident.
As the news of the fourth soldier's body being found spread, it served as a stark reminder of the risks faced by military personnel during training exercises. The commitment and sacrifice of the soldiers involved have been recognized and honored by leaders and citizens alike.
In closing, this incident not only highlights the dangers inherent in military training but also underscores the strong bonds between the United States and Lithuania. The solidarity shown during the search and rescue operation reflects the deep partnership between the two nations, particularly in times of adversity.
