Search for US soldiers continues in Lithuania after vehicle found submerged in 2025.
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On March 25, 2025, during a routine training exercise near Pabradė, Lithuania, four U.S. Army soldiers went missing after their M88 Hercules armored recovery vehicle became submerged in a swampy area. The soldiers, assigned to the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, were conducting scheduled tactical training at the General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area, located approximately 15 kilometers from the Belarus border. citeturn0search0
Search and Recovery Operations Search for US soldiers
In the aftermath of the incident, an extensive search and recovery operation was initiated, involving U.S. Army personnel, Lithuanian Armed Forces, and civilian agencies. The submerged vehicle was located, and recovery efforts are ongoing. citeturn0search0
Clarification of Casualty ReportsSearch for US soldiers
Earlier reports, including statements from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, suggested that the soldiers had been killed. However, NATO later clarified that these remarks were based on emerging news reports and did not confirm the soldiers’ fate, emphasizing that details remain unverified. citeturn0search2
International Response
The incident has drawn international attention, with leaders expressing condolences and support. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė have been actively involved in coordinating search efforts and providing updates. The Lithuanian defense minister noted that search operations are ongoing, with teams working around the clock and emergency medical support on standby. citeturn0search4
Background on Pabradė Training Area Search for US soldiers
The General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area, commonly known as the Pabradė Training Area, is a significant military facility in Lithuania. Established in 1904, it covers an area of 17,514 hectares and supports training at the battalion level. Since 2014, it has served as a base for U.S. forces, with Camp Herkus housing approximately 500 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, along with various military equipment. The presence of U.S. troops in this region aims to enhance military readiness amid regional security concerns, particularly in light of military activities in neighboring Belarus. citeturn0search23
The General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area, commonly known as the Pabradė Training Area, is a significant military facility in Lithuania. Established in 1904, it covers an area of 17,514 hectares and supports training at the battalion level. Since 2014, it has served as a base for U.S. forces, with Camp Herkus housing approximately 500 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, along with various military equipment. The presence of U.S. troops in this region aims to enhance military readiness amid regional security concerns, particularly in light of military activities in neighboring Belarus. citeturn0search23
The General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area, commonly known as the Pabradė Training Area, is a significant military facility in Lithuania. Established in 1904, it covers an area of 17,514 hectares and supports training at the battalion level. Since 2014, it has served as a base for U.S. forces, with Camp Herkus housing approximately 500 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, along with various military equipment. The presence of U.S. troops in this region aims to enhance military readiness amid regional security concerns, particularly in light of military activities in neighboring Belarus. citeturn0search23
The General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area, commonly known as the Pabradė Training Area, is a significant military facility in Lithuania. Established in 1904, it covers an area of 17,514 hectares and supports training at the battalion level. Since 2014, it has served as a base for U.S. forces, with Camp Herkus housing approximately 500 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, along with various military equipment. The presence of U.S. troops in this region aims to enhance military readiness amid regional security concerns, particularly in light of military activities in neighboring Belarus. citeturn0search23
Ongoing Investigation and Updates Search for US soldiers
Lithuanian authorities have initiated an investigation into the disappearance of the soldiers. Defense Minister Šakalienė confirmed that no bodies have been found and emphasized that declaring the soldiers dead at this stage would be premature. The search continues, with efforts focused on draining the swampy area to facilitate the recovery of the vehicle and any potential survivors. citeturn0search4
Community and Military Support Search for US soldiers
The incident has profoundly impacted both the local community and the broader military family. Soldiers from various units have rallied to assist in the search efforts, demonstrating solidarity and commitment to their comrades. The U.S. Army has assured that the families of the missing soldiers are being kept informed and supported during this challenging time. citeturn0search0
Conclusion Search for US soldiers
As search and recovery operations continue in Lithuania, the international community remains hopeful for the safe return of the missing soldiers. The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with military training exercises and highlights the importance of comprehensive safety protocols. Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
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