The US Army confirmed on Monday that three out of four missing American soldiers’ bodies have been recovered after their vehicle sank in a bog in Lithuania last week. The military also recovered the submerged vehicle as recovery operations are ongoing.
Grief and Commitment to Recovery
Major General Christopher Norrie, commanding general of the 3rd Infantry Division, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss.
The Soldiers we have lost in this tragedy were not merely Soldiers – they were part of our family. Our hearts are heavy with a sorrow that resonates across the entire Marne Division, both forward and at home,” he said.
He also underscored the military’s dedication to finding the remaining missing soldier.
But the search is not complete until all are home. There are no words to express our thanks to those who continue to work around the clock during these protracted search and recovery operations and your steadfast commitment not to rest until all are accounted for,” Norrie stated.
Search and Recovery Efforts Continue
The four soldiers were attached to the 1st Armored Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division in Fort Stewart, Georgia. They are not identified until the relatives are informed.
The accident took place during the early morning hours of March 25, when the soldiers were on a maintenance training operation to retrieve another US military vehicle in a Lithuanian training facility. Their M88 Hercules recovery vehicle, which weighed almost 70 tons, was discovered the next morning, March 26.
Massive International Response
The rescue mission has involved a large degree of cooperation between the US Armyand its allies. Hundreds of American service members, US Navy personnel, Lithuanian Armed Forces, and Polish Armed Forces, as well as Lithuanian government officials and civilians, have been working relentlessly to finish the mission.
The efforts are still concentrated on the search for the fourth missing soldier, making sure that no soldier is left behind.
