The tranquil landscape of Pabradė, Lithuania became the backdrop of a somber mission as US military with Lithuanian support recovered an M88 Hercules from a bog.
Key Takeaways
- Three American soldiers have been confirmed dead after their M88 Hercules sank near Pabradė, Lithuania.
- A fourth soldier remains missing with ongoing search and recovery efforts.
- The US and Lithuanian forces have collaborated in a complex recovery operation.
- The accident involved soldiers from the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team during a repair mission.
- The cause of the incident is under investigation.
Incident and Initial Responses
On March 25, the soldiers, part of the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, were engaged in a mission to repair and tow an immobilized tactical vehicle when their M88 Hercules became submerged in a swamp near Pabradė, Lithuania. Military and local authorities initiated an immediate search, although conditions were challenging due to dense mud and unstable ground.
Recovery operations were complicated by peat bog conditions, requiring significant technical and personnel resources from both US and Lithuanian forces.
Recovery Efforts and Challenges
Efforts included the use of helicopters, specialized equipment like large-capacity pumps, cranes, and support from the Polish Armed Forces, Navy divers, and local rescue services. Despite these efforts, three soldiers were discovered deceased within the vehicle, while a fourth remains missing as searches continue.
Hundreds of personnel from both countries labored in adverse conditions to retrieve the M88 Hercules, ultimately towing it ashore after a complex, multi-hour operation. Visibility under the water was zero, requiring Navy divers to work blindly to attach cables for hoisting.
3 missing US soldiers found dead in Lithuania, search continues for 4th soldier https://t.co/ULEh4xTTr1
— ABC13 Houston (@abc13houston) March 31, 2025
Investigation and Support
As the investigation into the accident continues, solidarity and condolences have been expressed to the families of the soldiers. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda and Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie have both conveyed their deep sorrow and gratitude for the support and collaboration during this harrowing ordeal.
Efforts to locate the missing soldier persist with advanced technology, including ground-penetrating radar, being deployed in the search areas. This mission underscores the risks faced by service members deployed worldwide, often in challenging environments far from home.
Sources
- 3 American soldiers deceased after US armored vehicle pulled from Lithuanian swamp
- 3 American soldiers dead after US armored vehicle pulled from Lithuanian swamp
- 3 missing US soldiers found dead in Lithuania, search continues for 4th soldier
