Search for Missing U.S. Soldiers in Lithuania Continues Amidst Challenging Conditions

The search for four U.S. Army soldiers from the 3rd Infantry Division, based at Fort Stewart, is ongoing in Lithuania following a training accident. The soldiers have been missing since Tuesday after their armored recovery vehicle, an M88 Hercules, became submerged in a boggy area near Pabradė.

Ongoing Search Efforts

As of Sunday, March 30, 2025, search and rescue operations have entered their sixth day. Teams from both the U.S. Army and the Lithuanian Armed Forces, along with civilian agencies, are involved in the effort. Despite challenging terrain and adverse conditions, recovery teams are working tirelessly to locate the missing soldiers.

Brigadier General John Lloyd, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers North Atlantic Division, emphasized the complexities of the situation, stating, "It is highly complex trying to get to the vehicle itself with the terrain out here and where the M88 is sitting in a bog swamp-like area, below the waterline." He noted that the vehicle's significant weight, combined with the muddy conditions, has created additional obstacles for recovery efforts.

Significant Breakthrough in Recovery Operations

After several days of intensive work, Lithuanian Defense Secretary Dovilė Šakalienė announced a breakthrough in the recovery efforts. Divers have successfully attached a cable to the submerged M88 Hercules, marking the first positive development since the search began. However, challenges remain as the recovery team prepares to stabilize the vehicle to prevent further sinking, as heavy mud surrounds it.

"We were pushed back again today due to a turf landslide, which added at least six hours of hard work," Šakalienė stated on social media. Despite the difficulties, the morale among the rescue teams remains high, as they continue their work with determination.

Statements from Military Officials

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth commented on the situation during a press conference in Japan. He expressed his condolences and support for the families of the missing soldiers, emphasizing that training exercises, while routine, can carry significant risks. His sentiments were echoed by Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, who stated, “Our hearts are heavy as we continue the search and recovery of the four soldiers.”

Current Situation and Future Efforts

Water levels at the incident site have been lowered to facilitate recovery operations, and excavating equipment is being used to enhance access to the vehicle. The families of the missing soldiers are receiving regular updates on the search efforts.

As the situation develops, officials anticipate beginning the extraction of the M88 early Monday morning, Eastern Standard Time. Recovery teams remain focused on carefully executing the next steps to enhance the chances of locating the missing soldiers.

The efforts underscore the dedication of military personnel and their collaboration with international partners as they navigate the challenges of this critical mission. Families, friends, and colleagues continue to hold hope for the safe return of the soldiers, as the search and rescue operations proceed.