Search operation stops as fourth US soldier found deceased in Lithuania

The body of a fourth American soldier has been recovered from the Pabradė training ground in Lithuania, concluding a nearly week-long search operation on Tuesday evening.

The soldiers, all assigned to the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, went missing last week during a training exercise. Three of them were found on Monday after an M88 Hercules armored carrier was retrieved from a swamp. The joint search effort included Lithuanian, US, Polish, and Estonian troops, as well as experts from multiple allied nations.

In Vilnius, a solidarity rally outside the US Embassy drew hundreds of people, including politicians, soldiers, and civilians, to pay respects to the fallen servicemen. US Ambassador Kara McDonald acknowledged the outpouring of support, calling it a testament to NATO unity.

Lieutenant General Remigijus Baltrėnas, Chief of Defense Staff of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, stated that the fourth soldier’s body was found near the submerged vehicle using excavators.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation by US authorities, who will determine whether to publicly release their findings. Lithuanian military officials plan to clear equipment from the training ground on Wednesday and assess further safety measures for future exercises.
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VS People paying respects to deceased US soldiers at US Embassy in Vilnius

SOUNDBITE (English) Kara C. McDonald, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Lithuania: “We feel that we are one of your own, and that is an expression of alliance. And we are so grateful for that alliance. Thank you so much for the capabilities you have brought to bear. I look out, and I see this crowd, and I am literally overwhelmed. Thank you so very, very much for coming out tonight to express your solidarity with these families, to express your solidarity with the troops who are working so hard at the site.”

VS US Ambassador greeting event participants

VS People paying respect to deceased US soldiers

SOUNDBITE (Lithuanian) Woman: “We came to show an example and show gratitude. Nothing more to say, just to express big respect.”

SOUNDBITE (Lithuanian) Man with the cap: “I express my solidarity with America. Although I am very stressed by D. Trump's policies, I feel sorry for those guys. May they rest in peace.“

VS People paying respect to deceased US soldiers

SOUNDBITE (Lithuanian) Lieutenant Colonel, Gediminas Latvys, Deputy Head of The Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union: “American soldiers came here and died defending our country, defending our families, defending our homes."

VS People paying respect to deceased US soldiers